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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Murren?

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 Murren 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. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Murren

Murren is a stunning, serene, and authentic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Snowdonia National Park and Murren: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Murren. Although Snowdonia National Park and Murren are popular destinations, Murren has more sights and attractions for tourists. Murren is very popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Snowdonia National Park attracts visitors for its beaches. Murren is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is known for its spectacular mountain views, authentically local atmosphere, and world class hiking and skiing. It is also well known for Lauterbrunnen Valley. Snowdonia National Park is famous for its beautiful mountain landscape.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Murren?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Murren is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a good national park for skiing and snowboarding.

Murren is among the world's best ski destinations. If you're visiting in the winter, you're in luck because the scenery and the slopes are both amazing. The top of Schilthorn is quickly accessed from the gondola and ski lifts, and heading down you'll find some difficult runs along with easier slopes. Enjoy your apres-ski in the village with cozy drinks and a dinner of fondue. And with more time, you can easily get across the valley to the Grindelwald-Wengen ski area, too.

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 Murren?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

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

Murren offers a few options for museum-goers. You don't visit this area for the museums, so if you're looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day, your options are limited.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Both Snowdonia National Park and Murren offer a number of nice 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.

Murren is becoming an appealing option for foodies. If you can afford the prices, you'll enjoy some great meals of fondue or local steak. There aren't many restaurants in town and some of the best are attached to the hotels. Those on a tight budget will be frustrated because cheap eats are hard to come by. You may as well pay a little more and enjoy a high quality, fine dining experience.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Murren is a moderate town for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Murren specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a quiet and residential town that is more about the daytime activities than the nightlife scene.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with good options for its beaches. However, Murren is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Snowdonia National Park. 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.

Murren is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

You'll find amazing hiking in both Snowdonia National Park and Murren.

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, Murren draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking trails pass right through the town, connecting the many alpine towns in the area. There are hikes for all levels, and each offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, which include Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch.

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Murren?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Murren is not a good place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Murren has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Aside from a food market or two, there aren't many shops in town and prices for everything are a bit high.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Murren.

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 Murren. Kid-friendly activities are everywhere in this amazing town. Take the Allmendhubel Funicular Train and explore one of the coolest playgrounds ever! Family-friendly trails abound and outdoor adventures with spectacular views are fun for everyone.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Both Snowdonia National Park and Murren are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Murren has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This small town offers charming hotels, hidden viewpoints, and romantic hikes through the Alps. If you want to experience an authentic side to the Alps, then stay in this town and explore the many hiking trails in the area.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Snowdonia National Park is well known for backpackers. However, Murren is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Snowdonia National Park. 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.

Murren is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in town so it's a bit difficult to stay in Murren as a backpacker. There are a number of charming hostels in the surrounding area though and they each have a unique local character.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Both Snowdonia National Park and Murren offer nice 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.

Murren has some public transit options. Train, cable car, and funicular are the only ways to reach this car-free town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Murren a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Murren

Murren is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

It is easy to get around Murren on foot. It's a small town with a very limited number of vehicles so it's best explored on foot. There are also many walking trails in the area.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Murren?

It's fun to spend time in either Snowdonia National Park or Murren. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Murren.

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

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


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Murren? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Murren 2-4

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Murren?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Snowdonia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Murren is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Murren?

Snowdonia National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Murren 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 Murren?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Snowdonia National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Murren is a great place to explore. 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 Murren?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the rugged destination of Snowdonia National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Murren. 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 Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Murren 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 Murren is £328. 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 Murren in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Murren £175
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Murren £350
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Murren

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park or Murren? 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 Murren


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: Murren Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Murren £40

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Snowdonia National Park or Murren?

Prices for flights to both Murren 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
    Murren £121

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Murren

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Murren.

  • Sunset hike with outdoor Cheese Fondue dinner: $167

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

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

  • Swiss countryside tour in free-cars town: $123
  • Sledding adventure with Chocolate degustation: $129
  • Private Speedriding Tandem Experience in Switzerland: $279

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Murren £15


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Snowdonia National Park and Murren, we can see that Murren 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 Murren would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Murren 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 Murren Expensive?.


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