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

Should you visit Birmingham or Zermatt?

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 Birmingham and Zermatt can help you decide which place is right for you.

Birmingham

Birmingham is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Birmingham and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Birmingham or Zermatt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Birmingham and Zermatt are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Birmingham is known for its museums, theatre productions, music, and quaint atmosphere. Zermatt is more touristy than Birmingham and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Birmingham is popular for its strong musical routes and its very livable atmosphere.

The Matterhorn

How is Birmingham different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for skiing. However, Birmingham is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Birmingham is not a skiing destination.

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

Birmingham is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Birmingham specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Museum & Art Gallery, Thinktank, and St. Philip's Cathedral.

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 Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Theater?

Birmingham is a well-known place for theatre. However, Zermatt is not a theatre destination.

Birmingham has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The impressive theater scene includes Broadway shows and musicals. Birmingham Hippodrome is a major theater in town.

Zermatt is not a theatre destination.

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

Zermatt is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zermatt. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Birmingham. Food reviews are mixed around town. The city has its share of award-winning restaurants, but there are also popular dishes that are more of an acquired taste. Local flavors include pork scratching, Birmingham soup, and brummie bacon cakes.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is very good in both Birmingham and Zermatt.

Many people head to Birmingham for the nightlife scene. With tons of students and young people looking to party, there is plenty to do in the evening. You'll find no shortage of pubs, clubs, and music venues around town.

Zermatt has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Music?

Birmingham is very popular for live music. However, Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Birmingham is a world class music destination. The city has long been a haven for musical creativity, and its influence over the global music scene is apparent. Popular music venues around town include Ghetto Golf, Digbeth Dining Club, and the Sunflower Lounge.

Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

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

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

Birmingham is not a resort destination.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Birmingham is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. 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.

Birmingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Birmingham or Zermatt?

If you're looking to go shopping, Birmingham and Zermatt both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Birmingham. The city offers everything from large department stores to smaller local shops. There are several good shopping streets around town as well as large markets and even a jewelry quarter.

Zermatt is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Birmingham or Zermatt.

Birmingham is a very family-friendly destination. The city has put effort into making sure there are plenty of family-friendly activities around. You can visit a chocolate factory, explore an aquarium, enjoy an animal safari, or explore one of the hands-on museums.

Zermatt is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Zermatt has plenty to offer. 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.

Birmingham is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic activities around town include taking a beautiful stroll through town, wandering around a park or garden, or seeing the ballet.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Birmingham is not a good destination for backpackers.

Zermatt is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Birmingham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there's at least one affordable hostel in town.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt Better for Students?

Birmingham is very popular for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Birmingham. With world class academic institutions and a very diverse and international population, this is a popular place for international students to study.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Birmingham and Zermatt both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Birmingham offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a reasonably comprehensive bus system.

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.

Is Birmingham or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Birmingham is a very walkable city. Many parts of the city are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Birmingham?

How long in Birmingham or Zermatt?

In either Birmingham or Zermatt, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zermatt has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zermatt than Birmingham. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Birmingham, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zermatt.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Birmingham. 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 Birmingham. 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham or Zermatt?

In Birmingham, you'll find food and shopping. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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.

With shopping and skiing around the breathtaking town of Zermatt, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Birmingham or Zermatt?

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

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Zermatt, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Birmingham or Zermatt?

Birmingham is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Birmingham has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Zermatt, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Birmingham or Zermatt?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Birmingham. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Birmingham. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Zermatt 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 Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in 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 Birmingham and Zermatt, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Birmingham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Birmingham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Birmingham 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 Birmingham.

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

Which is Bigger, Birmingham or Zermatt?

Birmingham has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Birmingham 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 Birmingham or Zermatt?

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 Birmingham or Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt and Birmingham during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Birmingham because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year.

Birmingham is cooler than Zermatt in the summer. The daily temperature in Birmingham averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Birmingham often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Birmingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 250 hours of full sun.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Birmingham usually gets less rain in July than Zermatt. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Birmingham or Zermatt in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Birmingham and Zermatt. The shopping scene and the music scene are the main draw to Birmingham this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Birmingham is cooler than Zermatt. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Birmingham in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Zermatt averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Birmingham usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during autumn. Birmingham gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Birmingham usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Birmingham gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Birmingham or Zermatt in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Birmingham as well as Zermatt. Many travelers come to Birmingham for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Birmingham. In January, Birmingham is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Birmingham average around 3°C (38°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Birmingham often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Birmingham gets 58 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun.

Birmingham usually gets less rain in January than Zermatt. Birmingham gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Birmingham or Zermatt in the Spring?

Both Zermatt and Birmingham are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Birmingham is cooler than Zermatt in the spring. The daily temperature in Birmingham averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Birmingham usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during spring. Birmingham gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. In April, Birmingham usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Birmingham