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Grindelwald vs Interlaken: Which is better?

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated:

Categories Europe, Switzerland

When it comes to deciding whether to visit Grindelwald or Interlaken, it can be tough to choose.

Both towns have a lot to offer tourists, from stunning scenery and majestic mountains to charming old-world villages and delicious food.

So, in the case of Interlaken vs Grindelwald: which should you choose?

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a scenic Swiss town that has been growing in popularity over the last few years for its breathtaking views and Christmas markets.

It’s located in the Jungfrau Region, which is part of the Bernese Highlands and is home to some of the tallest peaks in Switzerland.

If you’re looking for a town that has plenty of activities to keep you busy, Grindelwald is a great choice. There are plenty of hiking trails, ski slopes, and adventure activities in the area, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Accomodation in Grindelwald

Accommodation in Grindelwald be expensive, but there are some great deals to be found if you do your research.

The average price of a room in a hotel or hostel for one person in Grindelwald during peak season will run you around $115 per night, and can be up to $225 or more per night for double occupancy.

You can browse through hotels, resorts, and hostels in Grindelwald here 👇

Eating in Grindelwald

The cost of food in Grindelwald is slightly higher than in Interlaken. You can expect to pay around $25 for a meal at a budget restaurant, and up to $60 for a three-course dinner at a more expensive establishment.

Entertainment

In Grindelwald, activities, things to do, and other forms of entertainment typically cost around $47 per person, per day. This expense includes entry fees to attractions and museums as well as daily excursions.

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

Here are some actual costs for activities, ticket prices, and tours in Grindelwald:

Interlaken

Interlaken is also a scenic Swiss town, located in the Bernese Oberland region. It’s nestled between two lakes – Lake Thun and Lake Brienz – and is surrounded by the Alps.

Interlaken is a great choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed holiday. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in town, as well as a few museums and other attractions. And, of course, the scenery is simply stunning.

Accomodation in Interlaken

For a room in a hotel for a single person in Interlaken, you can expect to pay around $100 per night. Prices for a double room range from $130 to $270 per night, depending on the season.

Hostels can be found for much cheaper though, starting at around $25 per night for a bed in a shared dorm.

I’ve even written a whole list of the 23 best hotels, resorts, and hostels in Interlaken, so you can check that out for some inspiration!

You can browse through hotels, resorts, and hostels in Interlaken here 👇

Eating in Interlaken

Food in Interlaken is slightly cheaper than in Grindelwald. You can expect to pay around $20 for a meal at a budget restaurant, and around $45 or more for a three-course dinner at a more expensive establishment.

Entertainment

In Interlaken, things to do and other forms of entertainment typically cost an average of $85 per person, per day.

This expense includes entry fees to attractions and museums, as well as daily excursions.

I’ve written a whole guide on the 20 Best Things to Do in Interlaken, so check that out here!

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

Here are some actual costs for activities, ticket prices, and tours in Interlaken:

  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $30
  • High Ropes Adventure Park Admission in Interlaken: $46
  • Trümmelbach Waterfalls Small-Group Tour from Interlaken: $80
  • Aare River Gorge Walk Small-Group Tour from Interlaken: $106
  • Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz: $115
  • Schilthorn Piz Gloria (James Bond Location) Small Group Tour from Interlaken: $159
  • Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken: $196
  • Tandem Paragliding Experience with Transport from Interlaken: $196
  • Self-Guided Tour: Schilthorn Piz Gloria (James Bond world) from Interlaken: $217
  • Aare River Gorge Walk plus Lake Brienz Cruise – Private Tour from Interlaken: $238
  • Aare River Gorge Walk Private Tour from Interlaken: $238

P.S. There are a lot more options in Interlaken than in Grindelwald when it comes to budget activities. Check out my guide on How to See Interlaken on A Budget for some tips on how to save some $$$ while here.

So, which is better – Grindelwald or Interlaken?

It really depends on what you’re looking for in a holiday.

Grindelwald vs Interlaken: Pros and Cons

To help make your decision, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each town.

Pros and cons of Grindelwald

Pros:

  • Grindelwald is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
  • The town has a charming old-world feel, with narrow streets and traditional buildings.
  • Grindelwald is a great place for outdoor activities, with plenty of hiking and skiing trails in the area.

Cons:

  • The main downside to Grindelwald is that it can be quite crowded in summer, especially during peak season. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, Interlaken may be a better option.
  • Since it’s a smaller town, there are less options for accommodation in Grindelwald, and little to no hostel options for budget travelers.
  • Another downside to Grindelwald is that it can be quite expensive, especially compared to Interlaken.

Pros and cons of Interlaken

Pros:

  • Interlaken is a more cosmopolitan town than Grindelwald, with a wider range of restaurants and shops.
  • It is also a great base for exploring the Jungfrau Region, with easy access to both Grindelwald and other nearby towns.

Cons:

  • Interlaken is located in a valley, so if you’re looking for spacious mountaintop views, Grindelwald is a better choice.
  • Interlaken can be quite busy in summer, especially on the weekends.
  • There’s also more competition for accommodation in Interlaken, so it can be harder to find a place to stay during peak season.

Grindelwald vs Interlaken: which is the best destination for you?

If you’re looking for a charming alpine town with plenty of outdoor activities, Grindelwald is a great choice.

If you’re after a more cosmopolitan town with a wider range of amenities, Interlaken is the better option.

Grindelwald has more activities and nightlife, while Interlaken is more relaxed and charming.

Personally, I prefer Interlaken over Grindelwald.

It’s a little bit of a bigger city and has more to offer, but it’s not as touristy as Grindelwald. It also provides a wider range of accommodation, restaurant, and activity options than Grindelwald does.

Whichever town you choose, you’re sure to have an amazing holiday in Switzerland. Both towns are definitely worth a visit though, so don’t miss out on either!