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

Should you visit Antalya or Zurich?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Zurich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Zurich, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Zurich is known for its music and historical sights. Antalya is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Antalya different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Zurich and Antalya.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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 Antalya or Zurich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Zurich can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

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.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Zurich.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is a very popular place for its music scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for live music.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Resorts?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zurich is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Antalya for its luxury resorts. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Beaches?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Antalya offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Zurich offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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 Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Antalya is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Antalya is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Zurich?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Antalya and Zurich.

Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Zurich.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Zurich is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Antalya or Zurich Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Zurich make for a superb place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antalya is a great vacation spot to visit for backpackers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

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.

Is Antalya or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

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.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Antalya and Zurich.

Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Is Antalya or Zurich a more walkable city?

Zurich is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Zurich?

In either Antalya or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Antalya has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antalya than Zurich. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Antalya or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Zurich?

Antalya 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.

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the luxurious destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, 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 Antalya and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Antalya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antalya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antalya 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 Antalya.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Zurich?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya or Zurich?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Zurich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Zurich. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Zurich. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Antalya because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

Antalya is much warmer than Zurich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zurich. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antalya 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. In the winter, Antalya is much warmer than Zurich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Zurich averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Zurich. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Zurich. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Zurich. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Antalya