A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Zurich for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Aberdeen or Zurich?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Zurich? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a historic, cultural, and architectural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Aberdeen and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Aberdeen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Aberdeen attracts visitors for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Aberdeen and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Aberdeen is famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities.

How is Aberdeen different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Zurich?

Both Aberdeen and Zurich have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Zurich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is a well-known place for live music. However, Aberdeen is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Aberdeen is not a live music destination.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Zurich offers plenty to see. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Zurich?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aberdeen or Zurich.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zurich is very family-friendly. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for Couples?

Zurich is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zurich is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Zurich is fairly effecient and thorough. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Is Aberdeen or Zurich a more walkable city?

Aberdeen and Zurich both are superb when exploring on foot.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Zurich?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Aberdeen 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 Zurich.

One day in Aberdeen or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Zurich offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Zurich?

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Aberdeen or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the architectural destination of Aberdeen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Zurich is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Zurich?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Zurich, 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 Aberdeen or Zurich?

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 Aberdeen or Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aberdeen is much colder than Zurich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Zurich averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Zurich. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Zurich. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Aberdeen during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In October, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in October than Zurich. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Zurich. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. It's quite cold in Aberdeen in the winter. Aberdeen is around the same temperature as Zurich in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zurich. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Zurich. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aberdeen is much colder than Zurich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Zurich averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Aberdeen