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

Should you visit Southampton or Grindelwald?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Grindelwald? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Southampton

Southampton is a dynamic, up-and-coming, and waterfront port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Southampton and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
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


Is there more to do in Southampton or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Southampton and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Southampton is known for its museums and shopping. Grindelwald is more touristy than Southampton and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery. Southampton is popular for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Southampton different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Southampton or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Southampton
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a great town for skiing. However, Southampton is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Grindelwald. 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.

Southampton is not a skiing destination.


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

Southampton
Grindelwald

Southampton 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 Southampton. Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.

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 Southampton or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Southampton
Grindelwald

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Southampton and Grindelwald can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Southampton has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Grindelwald area. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

Is Southampton or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Southampton
Grindelwald

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Southampton and Grindelwald.

If you're looking for night time activities Southampton has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

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.


Is Southampton or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Southampton
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Southampton is not a hiking destination.

People visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Southampton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or Grindelwald?

Southampton
Grindelwald

Southampton is very good for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Southampton to go shopping. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.

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 Southampton or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Southampton
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Grindelwald is very family-friendly. 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.

Southampton is a family-friendly place to visit. This cruise port city offers a handful of fascinating activities for kids including learning about the Mayflower and the Titanic. There are also many parks and gardens as well as the Mayflower Theater, which regularly has kid-family productions.


Is Southampton or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Southampton
Grindelwald

With fun activities for couples, both Southampton and Grindelwald make for a great place to visit.

Southampton is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.

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 Southampton or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Southampton
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Southampton
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known 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 generally limited in Southampton. There are buses around town that make some areas accessible even without a car.


Is Southampton or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Southampton
Grindelwald

Southampton and Grindelwald are good when it comes to walkability.

Southampton is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to walk in parts of Southampton but in general it's easier to take a taxi.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable port city. 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 Southampton Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Southampton?

How long in Southampton or Grindelwald?

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

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Southampton. 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 Southampton. 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 Southampton 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 Southampton or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Southampton 1-3 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Southampton or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the up-and-coming port city of Southampton. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic destination of Southampton. This port city 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This 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.


Five days in Southampton or Grindelwald?

The up-and-coming port city of Southampton offers shopping and museums. 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.

Because Grindelwald is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Southampton or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Southampton. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Grindelwald or Southampton?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Southampton is £132, 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 Southampton and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Southampton £85
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Southampton £170
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Southampton and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Southampton 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 Southampton


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: Southampton Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Southampton £8.70
    Grindelwald £43
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Southampton

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Southampton:


  • Ferry to Isle of Wight
    £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Southampton

Also for Southampton, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • "Private Group Transfer: Southampton Port to London.": $290
  • "Private Stress-Free Transfer: Southampton to Heathrow.": $109
  • "Private Transfer: Heathrow to Southampton Port.": $110
  • From Cruise Terminal to London transfer: $650
  • Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port - Private Transfer: $300
  • Heathrow Airport to Southampton Ports - Private Transfer: $275
  • London to Southampton Cruise Terminal Private Transfer: $651
  • London to Southampton Port | Private Transfer: $300
  • London to Southern England Cruise Terminals Transfers: $119
  • London: City Center and Heathrow to Southampton Transfer: $131
  • Private Minicab Transfer from Southampton Port to London: $287
  • Private Port Arrival Transfer Southampton Cruise Terminals to Gatwick Airport: $226

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Southampton or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Southampton 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
    Southampton £37
    Grindelwald £47
Typical Food Prices in Southampton

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Southampton:


  • Breakfast
    £4.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Southampton £19
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Southampton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Southampton.

  • Secrets of the Titanic Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Private Southampton Walking Tour: $22
  • Isle of Wight Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • New Forest Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Winchester from Southampton Port: $112
  • Walk the Secrets of the Titanic: Private Tour: $114
  • Shuttle Service Southampton Cruise Terminals to Heathrow Airport and London: $153
  • Private cruise arrival from Southampton to London or airport: $159
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Windsor from Southampton Port: $160
  • London to Southampton and Portsmouth Cruise: $191
  • Oxford and Blenheim Palace Day Tour from Southampton: $191
  • Private Day Tour To Bath And The Cotswolds: $406

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Southampton £21
    Grindelwald £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Southampton

Also in Southampton, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Southampton Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


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

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


Which is Bigger, Southampton or Grindelwald?

Southampton has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Grindelwald. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Southampton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Southampton is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Southampton in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In the summer, Southampton often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Southampton gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Southampton usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Southampton gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Southampton 18°C (64°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

Both Grindelwald and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Southampton for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Southampton usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Southampton gets 107 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, Southampton usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Southampton gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Southampton 12°C (53°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Southampton during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Southampton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Grindelwald can be very cold during winter. Southampton can get quite cold in the winter. Southampton is cooler than Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Southampton often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Southampton gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in January than Grindelwald. Southampton gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Southampton 4°C (40°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Southampton or Grindelwald in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Southampton for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Southampton is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Southampton in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Southampton usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during spring. Southampton gets 147 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, Southampton usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Southampton gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Southampton 9°C (48°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Southampton

Southampton Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)