A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aalborg vs. Zermatt for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Aalborg or Zermatt?

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 Aalborg and Zermatt. 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.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a historic, charming, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Aalborg and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Aalborg or Zermatt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Aalborg and Zermatt are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Aalborg is known for its museums and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Aalborg and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Aalborg is popular for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Aalborg different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is renowned for winter skiing. However, Aalborg is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Aalborg is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aalborg or Zermatt?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Aalborg is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Aalborg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Is the Food Better in Aalborg or Zermatt? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aalborg
Zermatt

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Aalborg and Zermatt.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Aalborg makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Zermatt has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Aalborg
Zermatt

It's hard to distinguish whether Aalborg or Zermatt has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aalborg know how to have a good time. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

The nightlife in Zermatt has something for everybody. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.


Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is a great destination for its resorts. However, Aalborg is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Zermatt to choose from. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Aalborg is not a resort destination.

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for its Old Town?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Aalborg is very good for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Aalborg to see the historical old town. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Aalborg is not a hiking destination.

Zermatt is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Aalborg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Zermatt?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Families?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly place to visit. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is renowned for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Zermatt is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.


Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zermatt. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Students?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Aalborg is very good for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Aalborg is a good town to visit for students. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

Is Aalborg or Zermatt Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aalborg
Zermatt

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aalborg and Zermatt.

You'll find some public transit in Aalborg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system around town.

While Zermatt offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.


Is Aalborg or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Aalborg
Zermatt

Zermatt is renowned for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Zermatt on foot is easy. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Aalborg Worth Visiting? and Is Zermatt Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Zermatt?

In either Aalborg or Zermatt, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than Aalborg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aalborg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zermatt.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt than Aalborg 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 Zermatt.


  • How many days in Aalborg or Zermatt? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aalborg 2-3 
    Zermatt 2-5

One day in Aalborg or Zermatt?

In Aalborg, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Zermatt, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Aalborg or Zermatt?

In Aalborg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aalborg has to offer.

In Zermatt, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer.


Five days in Aalborg or Zermatt?

Aalborg is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Aalborg or Zermatt?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aalborg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aalborg. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zermatt or Aalborg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aalborg is $156, while the average daily cost in Zermatt is $223. 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 Aalborg and Zermatt in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aalborg $87
    Zermatt $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aalborg $174
    Zermatt $252
Compare Hotels in Aalborg and Zermatt

Looking for a hotel in Aalborg or Zermatt? 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 Aalborg


Hotels in Zermatt


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: Aalborg Hotel Prices and Zermatt Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aalborg $32
    Zermatt $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $46
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $87
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $131
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $131

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • 3-Hour Private Transfer from Zermatt and Saa to Geneva Airport: $235
  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $118
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $127
  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $1,087
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $141

Is it cheaper to fly into Aalborg or Zermatt?

Prices for flights to both Zermatt and Aalborg 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
    Aalborg $47
    Zermatt $57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zermatt

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zermatt.

  • Evening Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aalborg $24
    Zermatt $56

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

Here are a few actual costs in Aalborg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aalborg during WW2: Self-guided Audio Tour with StoryHunt: $14
  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $44
  • The best of Aalborg walking tour: $219
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $246
  • Love and Joy in Aalborg – Walking Tour for Couples: $480

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zermatt are as follows:

  • Sion Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $51
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $63
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket: $104
  • Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train Ticket: $108
  • Tapas tour in Zermatt: $111
  • Alpine Village Tour 2 hours: $126
  • Mount Gornergrat: Zermatt's Spectacular Summit Ticket: $152
  • Ticket for Zermatt Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: $154
  • Majestic Matterhorn: Zermatt to Glacier Paradise Cableway Ticket: $181
  • Mount Gornergrat Spectacular Summit Train Ticket: $183
  • Romance and Charms of Zermatt – Walking Tour: $221

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aalborg $19
    Zermatt $28

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84


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

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


Which is Bigger, Aalborg or Zermatt?

Aalborg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Aalborg and Zermatt, 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 Aalborg or Zermatt?

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 Aalborg or Zermatt in the Summer?

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

Aalborg is cooler than Zermatt in the summer. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around 16°C (61°F) in July, and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F) 
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Zermatt in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Aalborg is much colder than Zermatt. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aalborg in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Zermatt averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. Aalborg usually gets less rain in October than Zermatt. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F) 
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Zermatt in the Winter?

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

The weather in Zermatt can be very cold. Aalborg can be very cold during winter. In January, Aalborg is generally much colder than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around -1°C (31°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In January, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aalborg -1°C (31°F) 
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Aalborg or Zermatt in the Spring?

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

Aalborg is much colder than Zermatt in the spring. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Aalborg usually gets less rain in April than Zermatt. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aalborg 6°C (43°F) 
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Aalborg

Aalborg Zermatt
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (31°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb -0°C (31°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 2°C (36°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 11°C (51°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 3°C (38°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)