Thank you for all of those that have already helped so much with our switched itinerary. My last debate is on lodging and budget vs location. I booked a place in Grindelwald that is absolutely amazing, gorgeous mountain views and has many incredible reviews. It is also very budget friendly for Switzerland which is truly a miracle booking so late. Many people have mentioned not to stay in Grindelwald and to stay in Wengen instead. I found lodging but it's almost $800 USD more for 4 nights. Is this really worth it? We're going to be gone a month overall so this is a very big trip for our family of 5. Of course we want to stay in the ideal location, but I also want to adhere to our travel budget. Appreciate advice regarding location, budget, etc.
Posted by
San Diego, California
6974 posts
The last time I was in Murren, we stayed in a nice hotel room with just a tiny view , not in the direction of the Jungfrau. I was fully aware of the view limitations when I booked, but I was considering the budget. The day we arrived in Murren, and the Alps were spectacular! I walked into the hotel and tried to upgrade to the corner room with the panoramic views, but that room was booked. I still think about my "miss." I don't think I have ever regretted having a view room.
But budget considerations are a reality.
(Not all locations need a view room to keep me happy. Venice, for instance, not a requirement.)
A question I would ask is if your hotel has a comfortable lobby? If we have rainy days, I like a view room, because I don't feel closed in. But if the hotel has a nice lobby for relaxing, reading, playing games, that helps for rainy days , when staying in non-view rooms.
Good luck with the decision!
Posted by
Schaumburg, IL
320 posts
Hotel Bernerhoff Wengen is a good budget option with great views and restaurant.
Posted by
Bend, OR
1960 posts
If you have a budget, you have a budget. Yes, Grindelwald is crowded and touristy but it just means you walk a bit down the road, take an tram and out of it. And btw, Wengen and Murren are becoming more and more crowded. It is a stunning and beautiful area, enjoy!
Posted by
Green Bay
23305 posts
I found lodging but it's almost $800 USD more for 4 nights. Is this really worth it?
The first 3 laws of real estate. Location, location, location.
Posted by
OP
33 posts
The place I've booked in Grindelwald is an Airbnb that has a gorgeous view from a balcony out front. The places I've looked at in Wengen are similar but just not quite as updated and pricier, so I'll keep checking in case I find something a bit more reasonable there. Hotel rooms don't work very well for us because we have to split up into 2 rooms since we're a family of 5. Thank you everyone for your tips and for sharing your experiences.
Posted by
California, U.S.A.
41 posts
To Pat: I love your reply! I feel the same way about having access to a nice and relaxing lobby area. I also love a room with a view though too!
Posted by
Switzerland
405 posts
I booked a place in Grindelwald that is absolutely amazing, gorgeous mountain views and has many incredible reviews. It is also very budget friendly for Switzerland which is truly a miracle booking so late.
Sounds like you hit the jackpot! Why on earth would you give this up? I see from your other posts that you have three teen and pre-teen kids. Grindelwald will be perfect for you!
Use the 800.00 to do more fun things in the area, even if it is raining ( can’t quite imagine that your family would enjoy hanging out in a hotel lobby on a rainy day).
https://grindelwald.swiss/en/destination/diversity-of-needs/bad-weather-program.html
Posted by
Minneapolis
154 posts
$200/night savings is significant. The crowds in Grindelwald are mainly between the train station and First cable car station during the middle of the day. Last year I stayed 2 blocks below the train station without any impact of the crowds during my stay. The bus service helped getting around. I miss the views already.