A Travel Price Comparison for Switzerland Zurich vs. Grindelwald for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Zurich or Grindelwald?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Grindelwald. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Zurich and Grindelwald: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Grindelwald?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Grindelwald are both popular with visitors, Zurich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zurich is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Grindelwald is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Grindelwald is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

How is Zurich different from Grindelwald?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich or Grindelwald? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Zurich is an experience not to be missed. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Nightlife?

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

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for its music scene. However, Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Grindelwald is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Grindelwald Better for its Old Town?

Zurich 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 Zurich is revered around the world. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Grindelwald is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Grindelwald?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Grindelwald are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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.

Is Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Couples?

Zurich and Grindelwald both high quality destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Zurich or Grindelwald Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Zurich can get you to most places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Zurich or Grindelwald a more walkable city?

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

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Grindelwald Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grindelwald or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Grindelwald?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zurich or Grindelwald to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zurich than Grindelwald because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-2 days is enough time in Grindelwald.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich 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 Zurich.

One day in Zurich or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic city of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the shopping. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the liberal destination of Zurich. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Grindelwald?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the liberal city of Zurich. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Zurich or Grindelwald?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Zurich. 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 shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grindelwald 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 Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.

When comparing the travel costs between Zurich and Grindelwald, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Grindelwald?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Grindelwald in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Grindelwald. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Grindelwald in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zurich is around the same temperature as Grindelwald. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Grindelwald this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Grindelwald during summer. Zurich gets 241 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, Zurich usually receives less rain than Grindelwald. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Grindelwald in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Grindelwald. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Zurich is generally cooler than Grindelwald. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Grindelwald fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Grindelwald receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Grindelwald. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Grindelwald in the Winter?

Both Grindelwald and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Grindelwald can be very cold. Zurich can be very cold during winter. Zurich is much colder than Grindelwald in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Grindelwald fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Grindelwald during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Grindelwald receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Grindelwald. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Grindelwald in the Spring?

Both Grindelwald and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year.

In the spring, Zurich is cooler than Grindelwald. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Grindelwald averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Grindelwald. Zurich gets 150 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. Zurich usually gets less rain in April than Grindelwald. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Grindelwald receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Grindelwald and Zurich