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

Should you visit Windsor or Grindelwald?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a high adrenaline, breathtaking, and beautiful town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Windsor and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Windsor or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grindelwald. Although Windsor and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Grindelwald has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and shopping, while Windsor is known for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. It is also home to the beautiful mountain scenery.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Windsor different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Windsor or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Windsor is not a skiing destination.

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.

Windsor is not a skiing destination.


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

Windsor
Grindelwald

Windsor is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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 Windsor or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Foodies will find both Windsor and Grindelwald both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

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 Windsor or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Grindelwald.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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 Windsor or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Windsor is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Windsor offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Windsor or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Grindelwald?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a town with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Windsor or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Grindelwald is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Windsor
Grindelwald

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

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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.

Is Windsor or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Grindelwald

Grindelwald is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Windsor
Grindelwald

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Grindelwald.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Windsor or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

Windsor
Grindelwald

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

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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 Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Windsor or Grindelwald to fill your time. In our opinion, Grindelwald has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Grindelwald than Windsor. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Windsor or Grindelwald?

Windsor is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

In Grindelwald, you'll find food and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Windsor or Grindelwald?

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

In Grindelwald, you'll find skiing and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Grindelwald?

Because Windsor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Grindelwald?

Since Windsor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Grindelwald. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in 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 Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, 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 Windsor and Grindelwald in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Grindelwald £114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Grindelwald £228
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Grindelwald

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Grindelwald Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Grindelwald £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Grindelwald?

Prices for flights to both Grindelwald and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Grindelwald £47
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Grindelwald £48

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

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
    Windsor £7.55
    Grindelwald £26


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Grindelwald?

Windsor has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Grindelwald in the Summer?

Both Grindelwald and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor 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, Windsor is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Grindelwald. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Windsor or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

Both Grindelwald and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere 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, Windsor is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Windsor or Grindelwald in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Grindelwald. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Windsor or Grindelwald in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Grindelwald. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Windsor

Windsor 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)