A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Warsaw vs. Murren for Couples, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Warsaw or Murren?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Warsaw and Murren 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.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a under-rated, diverse, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Murren

Murren is a breathtaking, stunning, and serene town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include skiing, food, and hiking.

Warsaw and Murren: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Warsaw or Murren?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Warsaw. Although Warsaw and Murren are both popular with visitors, Warsaw has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Warsaw is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Murren is known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Murren is more touristy than Warsaw and is popular for its spectacular mountain views, authentically local atmosphere, and world class hiking and skiing. Warsaw is popular for its historical position as a cultural and political center. It is also home to The Old Town Market Square.

How is Warsaw different from Murren?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Warsaw or Murren Better for Skiing?

Warsaw
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Warsaw is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Murren. 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.

Warsaw is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Warsaw or Murren?

Warsaw
Murren

Warsaw is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Murren is not particularly known for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Murren. 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.

Is the Food Better in Warsaw or Murren? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Warsaw
Murren

Dining out at restaurants in both Warsaw and Murren can be an enjoyable experience.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Murren. 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 Warsaw or Murren Better for Nightlife?

Warsaw
Murren

Warsaw is well known for nightlife. However, Murren is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Warsaw is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

Murren doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet and residential town that is more about the daytime activities than the nightlife scene.


Is Warsaw or Murren Better for its Old Town?

Warsaw
Murren

Warsaw is well known for its historic old town. However, Murren does not have a historic old town.

Warsaw is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Murren does not have a historic old town.

Is Warsaw or Murren Better for Hiking?

Warsaw
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Warsaw is not a hiking destination.

Around Murren visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Warsaw is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Murren?

Warsaw
Murren

Warsaw is a city with good options for shopping. However, Murren is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Warsaw is a great destination for shopping. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Shopping in Murren can be found for those interested. Aside from a food market or two, there aren't many shops in town and prices for everything are a bit high.


Is Warsaw or Murren Better for Families?

Warsaw
Murren

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

Murren is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Warsaw is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Is Warsaw or Murren Better for Couples?

Warsaw
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Murren is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Warsaw makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

Is Warsaw or Murren Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Warsaw
Murren

Warsaw is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Murren is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Warsaw is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

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 Warsaw or Murren Better for Students?

Warsaw
Murren

Warsaw is well known for students. However, Murren is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

Murren is not popular with students.

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

Warsaw
Murren

Warsaw is well known for its public transit. Also, Murren is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Warsaw. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

While Murren offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Train, cable car, and funicular are the only ways to reach this car-free town.

Is Warsaw or Murren a more walkable city?

Warsaw
Murren

Murren is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

Murren is a very easy town to get around 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.

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.


For even more information, also check out Is Warsaw Worth Visiting? and Is Murren Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Murren or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Murren?

It's fun to spend time in either Warsaw or Murren. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Murren due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Warsaw, and 2-4 days is enough time in Murren.

Families should spend more time in Murren than Warsaw. 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 Warsaw. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Warsaw than Murren 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 Warsaw.


  • How many days in Warsaw or Murren? Ideal Length of Stay
    Warsaw 1-3 
    Murren 2-4

One day in Warsaw or Murren?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Warsaw. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Murren might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

A weekend in Warsaw or Murren?

Warsaw is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Murren is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Warsaw or Murren?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Warsaw. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Murren. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Warsaw or Murren?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Warsaw. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Murren is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Murren or Warsaw?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Warsaw is $93, while the average daily cost in Murren is $407. 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 Warsaw and Murren in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Warsaw $51
    Murren $217
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Warsaw $102
    Murren $434
Compare Hotels in Warsaw and Murren

Looking for a hotel in Warsaw 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 Warsaw


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: Warsaw Hotel Prices and Murren Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Warsaw $4.67
    Murren $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Warsaw

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

  • Airport Transfer (Warsaw ⇄ Krakow): $142
  • Airport Transfer: Warsaw Airport WAW to Warsaw by Business Car: $65
  • Airport Transfer: Warsaw Airport WAW to Warsaw by Luxury Van: $73
  • Arrival Transfer: Chopin Airport WAW to Warsaw by Van: $71
  • Arrival Transfer: Warsaw Airport WAW to Warsaw by Luxury Van: $73
  • Chopin Airport One–Way Limousine Transfer: $248
  • Indoor Paintball with Hotel Transfers: $55
  • Luxury Warsaw Chopin Airport Transfer by private Minivan car: $89
  • ONEWAY Private Warsaw Chopin Airport(WAW) to/from Warsaw Transfer: $24
  • Premium Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI) Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Warsaw Chopin Airport: $65
  • Private Departure Transfer: Warsaw Chopin Airport: $58

Is it cheaper to fly into Warsaw or Murren?

Prices for flights to both Murren and Warsaw 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
    Warsaw $27
    Murren $150
Typical Food Prices in Warsaw

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


  • Dinner for Two
    $13
  • Lunch for Two
    $10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Warsaw

For Warsaw, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Lunch or Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe with Skip-the-Line: $17
  • Warsaw's No 1 cooking class-Polish dumplings with liqueur tasting: $61
  • Polish Dumplings Cooking Class: $62
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class in Warsaw: $79
  • Traditional Polish Cooking Class with liquor tasting in Warsaw: $89
  • Polish Food Tour: $92
  • Taste of Poland - Old Town food tour and guided walk in one: $94
  • 4-Hour Polish Food Tour: $109
  • The 10 Tastings of Warsaw With Locals: Private Food Tour : $117
  • EVERYDAY Warsaw Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156
  • Traditional Food Tour with Old Town Sightseeing: $156

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.
    Warsaw $7.00
    Murren $59

Tours and Activities in Warsaw

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • Walking Audio Tour of Wilanów Palace Grounds: $5.20
  • Uncover Historic Marvels of In-App Audio Tour: $5.32
  • Old Town Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Warsaw Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.00
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Smartphone Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews Ticket: $11
  • Warsaw Old Town In-App Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $12
  • Traditional Galar Cruise on The Vistula River: $15

Tours and Activities in Murren

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Warsaw $10
    Murren $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Warsaw

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Warsaw:

  • The Original Pub Crawl: $16
  • #1 Pub Crawl Warsaw with Premium Open Bar: $20
  • Pub Crawl with 1-Hour Open Bar: $20
  • Warsaw Wine Tasting Private Tour with Wine Expert: $176


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

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


Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Murren?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 3780 times larger than the population of Murren. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw and Murren, 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.