A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Lisse for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Interlaken or Lisse?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Lisse can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adrenaline-filled, breathtaking, and world-class town. Many visitors also come to Interlaken because of it's amazing beauty. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the hiking, skiing, and nightlife. See Interlaken travel costs.

Lisse

Lisse is a colorful, picturesque, and stunning town. Lisse is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Lisse travel costs.

Interlaken and Lisse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Keukenhof Gardens
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Interlaken or Lisse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisse. Although Interlaken and Lisse are popular destinations, Lisse has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisse is very popular for its museums and attractions and shopping, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is famous for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Lisse is famous for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also well known for the Keukenhof Gardens.

How is Interlaken different from Lisse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Lisse Better for Skiing?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken is a popular place for skiing. However, Lisse is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Lisse is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Interlaken or Lisse?

Interlaken
Lisse

Lisse is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Lisse is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Interlaken or Lisse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Interlaken has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Lisse area. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Is Interlaken or Lisse Better for Nightlife?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Interlaken for the nightlife scene. There are tons of pubs and bars around town. This is the best way to meet locals and makes for a fun night out on the town. The atmosphere is generally laid back and relaxed, which matches the mellow vibe of the town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lisse. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.


Is Interlaken or Lisse Better for Hiking?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Lisse is not a hiking destination.

People visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Lisse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Lisse?

Interlaken
Lisse

Lisse is very good for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Lisse. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Lisse More Beautiful?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken and Lisse both are comparable with their world-class scenery and beauty.

Interlaken is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. While the city itself has a lot of charm and character, it's really about exploring the surrounding countryside. There are world class hikes, stunning vistas, and adrenaline-filled adventure sports that you shouldn't miss.

The famous beauty of Lisse is one of the main draws. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.


Is Interlaken or Lisse Better for Families?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Interlaken is a very family-friendly destination. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

Lisse is a family-friendly place to visit. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.

Is Interlaken or Lisse Better for Couples?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Interlaken makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Lisse is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

Is Interlaken or Lisse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken and Lisse are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lisse. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.


Is Interlaken or Lisse Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Interlaken can get you to some places easily. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Lisse has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.

Is Interlaken or Lisse a more walkable city?

Interlaken
Lisse

Interlaken and Lisse are nice when it comes to walkability.

Interlaken is somewhat walkable. The old town is relatively walkable.

Lisse is a somewhat walkable place. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Interlaken Worth Visiting? and Is Lisse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisse or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Lisse?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Interlaken than Lisse 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 Interlaken.


  • How many days in Interlaken or Lisse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Interlaken 2-5 
    Lisse 1-2

One day in Interlaken or Lisse?

In Interlaken, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this adventurous destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums and nightlife around the stunning town of Lisse, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisse, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Interlaken or Lisse?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Lisse, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Interlaken or Lisse?

Interlaken is a fun place to experience. In Interlaken, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Lisse, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Lisse?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the breathtaking destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lisse is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Lisse or Interlaken?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Interlaken is $324, while the average daily cost in Lisse is $210. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Interlaken and Lisse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Interlaken $155
    Lisse $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Interlaken $310
    Lisse $186
Compare Hotels in Interlaken and Lisse

Looking for a hotel in Interlaken or Lisse? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Interlaken


Hotels in Lisse


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Interlaken Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Interlaken $15
    Lisse $27
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Interlaken

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Interlaken are as follows:


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

Also for Interlaken, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Group transfer Interlaken - Zurich Airport: $899
  • Zurich City / Airport: Private Transfer to Davos/Klosters: $553
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Lucerne: $327
  • Day Hike to Augstmatthorn with Transfer from Interlaken: $264
  • Private direct transfer from Interlaken to Zurich: $263
  • Private Transfer from interlaken City to Lucerne City: $168

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

Also for Lisse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Haarlem to cruise port in Amsterdam: $84
  • From The Hague: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $294
  • From Rotterdam: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $341

Is it cheaper to fly into Interlaken or Lisse?

Prices for flights to both Lisse and Interlaken change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Interlaken $129
    Lisse $95
Typical Food Prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    $38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • From Night Sledding with Cheese Fondue Dinner: $162
  • Fondue Cooking Class and Cheese Workshop in Switzerland: $164
  • Cheese and Chocolate Full-Day Food Tour: $843

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisse

For Lisse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Haarlem's Food-steps: A self-guided Food Tour: $43
  • Guided Food Tour Haarlem (min. 2 persons) - Many local tastings : $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Interlaken $121
    Lisse $35

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Waterfall in Lauterbrunnen from Interlaken Early Express Tour: $65
  • Admission Ticket to the Swiss Selfie Museum in Interlaken: $27
  • All-Inclusive Ski Experience for Beginners: $191
  • Annecy France The Venice of the Alps Private Tour via Geneva: $300
  • Attraction Ticket: Day Pass for Lake Thun&Brienz Boat Cruise: $145
  • Attraction Ticket: Interlaken to Harder Funicular: $102
  • Attraction Ticket: Interlaken to Harder Funicular : $113
  • Attraction Ticket: Jungfraujoch self-guided day trip: $459
  • Bern: Grindelwald First & Bachalpsee Hiking Private Tour: $815
  • Blausee Express Sightseeing Tour from Interlaken Switzerland: $100
  • Blausee and Castle Spiez and Lake Thun Sightseeing Tour Private: $250
  • Bollywood Tour Gstaad - Full Tour : $205

Tours and Activities in Lisse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lisse.

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour Throughout History & Highlights of Haarlem: $29
  • 2-Hour Private History and Highlights of Haarlem Walking Tour: $239
  • 90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Haarlem: $23
  • Amsterdam: Private Tour to Keukenhof & Free Tulip Experience: $370
  • BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise: $77
  • Corrie Ten Boom and WW2 Experience: $39
  • Cultural and Historical Audio guided walking tour Tour of Haarlem: $16
  • Discover Haarlem with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $30
  • Escape Experience Haarlem The Escape of Kenau: $33
  • Food Bike Tour Haarlem Area: $101
  • From Flower Bike Tour Around Keukenhof Small Group: $116
  • From Keukenhof Flower Fields Bike Tour: $58

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Interlaken $20
    Lisse $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Interlaken and Lisse, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Lisse much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lisse would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lisse 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken than you might in Lisse.

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


Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Lisse?

Lisse has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken and Lisse, 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 Interlaken or Lisse?

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 Interlaken or Lisse in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Lisse. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Lisse because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Interlaken is a little warmer than Lisse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Lisse averages at about 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisse this time of the year. In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Lisse during summer. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Lisse. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F) 
    Lisse 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Lisse in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Lisse. The autumn months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisse this time of year.

In October, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Lisse. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Lisse fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Lisse. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 99 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Lisse. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F) 
    Lisse 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Lisse in the Winter?

Both Lisse and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing and the cuisine are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lisse. It's quite cold in Interlaken in the winter. Interlaken is a little warmer than Lisse in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Lisse fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Lisse during winter. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Lisse. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F) 
    Lisse 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Interlaken or Lisse in the Spring?

Both Lisse and Interlaken during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Lisse in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Interlaken is much warmer than Lisse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Lisse averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Lisse. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 166 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in April than Lisse. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F) 
    Lisse 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Lisse and Interlaken

Interlaken Lisse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)