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

Should you visit York or Grindelwald?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a fanciful, historic, and medieval city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

York and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or Grindelwald?

Visitors will usually find more to do in York than Grindelwald, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. York is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Grindelwald is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. York is well known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Also, York is famous for The Shambles. Grindelwald is well known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

How is York different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is York or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, York is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other 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.

York is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

York has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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

Is York or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

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

York is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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 York or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

York is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of York is revered around the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is York or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, York 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.

York is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in York or Grindelwald?

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

Many visitors go to York to go shopping. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

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 York or Grindelwald Better for Families?

York is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

York is one of the most popular family destinations. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

Grindelwald is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is York or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

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

York is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Grindelwald makes for a fun place to visit for 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 York or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both York and Grindelwald are great destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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

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

Both York and Grindelwald offer notable public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

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

Is York or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

York and Grindelwald both are notable when exploring on foot.

York is somewhat walkable. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

Grindelwald is a somewhat walkable place. 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 York Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or York?

How long in York or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in York or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in York than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

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

Couples should spend more time in York than Grindelwald. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in York that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in York than Grindelwald 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 York.

One day in York or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of York. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and skiing. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in York or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fanciful destination of York. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This 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 is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Grindelwald?

The fanciful city of York offers shopping and museums. 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 small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Grindelwald?

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

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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, York or Grindelwald?

York has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Grindelwald. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to York this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, York is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in York average around 16°C (62°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. York usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, York usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit York or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to York as well as Grindelwald. Many travelers come to York for the shopping scene. 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.

York is cooler than Grindelwald in the autumn. The daily temperature in York averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. York usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and York are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to York in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. York can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, York is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the winter temperatures in York in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 5°C (41°F).

York usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit York or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and York during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, York is generally much colder than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in York average around 8°C (46°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 176 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. York usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and York