Wengen vs Grindelwald for 3 days in early May?

Hi -

What a great website you guys have created - so helpful! I just wanted to get some thoughts on the difference between staying in Wengen vs staying in Grindelwald? We'll be there for three days in early May and just want to do some hiking and soak up the beauty of the Swiss Alps. Nightlife doesn't matter so much to me but whichever has the better options for eating out, grocery store, etc. is probably what we prefer (also we won't have a car so Wengen being car-free is fine). Also I know May is very early in the season so I also wonder if most things in town will be open or not. Thank you!

John

Hi John, and thanks for your compliments!

Opinions on Wengen vs Grindelwald differ. If you search this forum using the search box in the upper right corner you'll find several other threads dealing with this issue. Now, as for your specific situation: Grindelwald is larger than Wengen and has more facilities, so in all this may be a better choice for a low season visit in early May. Views from both towns are great. Wengen is at a higher altitude, so you'll both look at the snow-capped Alps and down to the Lauterbrunnen valley. Due to this height, there's more chance of (melting) snow and mud near Wengen. Grindelwald is located in a valley, but if you manage to find a good spot with a room facing the Alps, you'll be able to view the impressive Eiger north face.