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

Should you visit Tartu or Grindelwald?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Grindelwald can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tartu

Tartu is a intellectual, student-oriented, and cultural university town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Tartu and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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


Is there more to do in Tartu or Grindelwald?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Tartu and Grindelwald are popular destinations, Grindelwald has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grindelwald is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Tartu attracts visitors for its nightlife and historical sights. Grindelwald is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also well known for the beautiful mountain scenery. Tartu is famous for its vibrant student population and long running university.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Tartu different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tartu or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Tartu
Grindelwald

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

Grindelwald draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.

Tartu is not a skiing destination.


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

Tartu
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tartu or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tartu
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Grindelwald

Tartu is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Tartu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

If you're looking for night time activities Grindelwald has a few options to choose from. 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 Tartu or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Grindelwald

Tartu is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Tartu or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Tartu
Grindelwald

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

Around Grindelwald visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Grindelwald?

Tartu
Grindelwald

If you're looking to go shopping, Tartu and Grindelwald both offer plenty of reasonable spots.

Tartu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

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 Tartu or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Tartu
Grindelwald

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

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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Tartu or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Tartu
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a great town for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Grindelwald is a great town 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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Grindelwald

For backpackers, both Tartu and Grindelwald are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.


Is Tartu or Grindelwald Better for Students?

Tartu
Grindelwald

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Tartu. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Tartu
Grindelwald

Tartu and Grindelwald both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Tartu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

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

Is Tartu or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Tartu
Grindelwald

Tartu is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

Grindelwald is somewhat walkable. 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 Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tartu or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tartu 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 Tartu, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

Families should spend more time in Grindelwald than Tartu. 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 Tartu. 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.


  • How many days in Tartu or Grindelwald? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Grindelwald 1-2

One day in Tartu or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the cultural university town of Tartu. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tartu or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Tartu. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tartu or Grindelwald?

The student-oriented university town of Tartu offers nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Grindelwald is a fun place to experience. Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Tartu or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Tartu. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grindelwald is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Grindelwald or Tartu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €105, while the average daily cost in Grindelwald is €226. 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 Tartu and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Grindelwald 133
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Grindelwald 266
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Tartu 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 Tartu


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: Tartu Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Grindelwald 50

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 Tartu or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Tartu 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
    Tartu 37
    Grindelwald 54
Typical Food Prices in Tartu

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


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Grindelwald 56
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

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

  • European Capital of Culture 2024 - Cycling Tour: $14
  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $27
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR & KENNEL VISIT: $75
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Walking Tour: $127
  • Charming Viljandi Walking Tour for Couples: $142
  • Spectacular Christmas Walking Tour in Viljandi: $199
  • Traditional Christmas Walking Tour in Tartu: $234

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
    Tartu 16
    Grindelwald 31


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Grindelwald?

Tartu has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Tartu 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 Tartu 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 Tartu or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Grindelwald. Many visitors come to Tartu in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tartu is cooler than Grindelwald in the summer. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tartu this time of the year. In the summer, Tartu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Grindelwald. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Tartu usually gets less rain in July than Grindelwald. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

Both Grindelwald and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tartu is much colder than Grindelwald. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tartu in October average around 6°C (43°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during autumn. Tartu gets 86 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, Tartu usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Tartu during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Tartu because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. The weather in Tartu can be very cold. In January, Tartu is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around -7°C (19°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Grindelwald. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Grindelwald in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Grindelwald. The natural beauty are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Tartu in the spring. Tartu is much colder than Grindelwald in the spring. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 5°C (41°F) in April, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Tartu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Grindelwald during spring. Tartu gets 180 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, Tartu usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Tartu

Tartu Grindelwald
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)