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

Should you visit Belfast or Zermatt?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Zermatt, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Belfast

Belfast is a affordable, under-rated, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and shopping.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Belfast and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or Zermatt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Belfast and Zermatt are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Belfast is known for its big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Belfast and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Belfast is popular for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

The Matterhorn

How is Belfast different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for snow skiing. However, Belfast is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Zermatt is among the best in 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.

Belfast is not a skiing destination.

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

Zermatt is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Zermatt offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Zermatt is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zermatt makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

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

Zermatt offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Belfast is not a resort destination.

Zermatt is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Belfast is not a resort destination.

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Zermatt draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Zermatt?

Zermatt is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Families?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Zermatt has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Zermatt Better for Students?

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

Belfast is a good city to visit for students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Zermatt is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Zermatt has a few public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Zermatt?

In either Belfast or Zermatt, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than Belfast because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Belfast, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zermatt.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Belfast. 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 Belfast. 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 Belfast 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.

One day in Belfast or Zermatt?

In Belfast, you'll find nightlife and shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Belfast or Zermatt?

In Belfast, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Zermatt?

Belfast 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 Belfast or Zermatt?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Belfast. 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 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 Belfast and Zermatt, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Belfast much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Belfast would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Belfast 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 Belfast.

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

Which is Bigger, Belfast or Zermatt?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Belfast for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Belfast is much colder than Zermatt in the summer. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Zermatt. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. In July, Belfast usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Belfast or Zermatt in the Autumn?

Both Zermatt and Belfast during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 152 hours of full sun.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Belfast usually gets less rain in October than Zermatt. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Zermatt in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zermatt. It's quite cold in Belfast in the winter. In January, Belfast is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 4°C (39°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zermatt. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Belfast or Zermatt in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Zermatt. Many travelers come to Belfast for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Belfast is much colder than Zermatt in the spring. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Zermatt. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Belfast