A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bristol vs. Lucerne for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Bristol or Lucerne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Lucerne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bristol

Bristol is a diverse, cultural, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bristol and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Bristol or Lucerne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than Bristol. While Bristol is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is more touristy than Bristol and is known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Bristol is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Bristol different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bristol or Lucerne?

Bristol
Lucerne

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Lucerne and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.


Is the Food Better in Bristol or Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bristol
Lucerne

Dining out at restaurants in both Bristol and Lucerne can be an enjoyable experience.

Bristol is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Bristol or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Bristol
Lucerne

The vibe at night is very good in both Bristol and Lucerne.

Many people head to Bristol for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Bristol or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Bristol
Lucerne

Lucerne is great for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Lucerne?

Bristol
Lucerne

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bristol. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Bristol or Lucerne Better for Families?

Bristol
Lucerne

Both Bristol and Lucerne are nice to visit with kids.

Bristol offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Bristol or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Bristol
Lucerne

Lucerne is great for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.


Is Bristol or Lucerne Better for Students?

Bristol
Lucerne

Bristol is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to visit Bristol. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Bristol or Lucerne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bristol
Lucerne

Bristol and Lucerne both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Bristol offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Bristol or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Bristol
Lucerne

Bristol is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.


For even more information, also check out Is Bristol Worth Visiting? and Is Lucerne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bristol and Lucerne. In our opinion, Lucerne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lucerne than Bristol. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lucerne than Bristol 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 Lucerne.


  • How many days in Bristol or Lucerne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bristol 1-3 
    Lucerne 1-3

One day in Bristol or Lucerne?

In Bristol, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Bristol or Lucerne?

In Bristol, 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 Bristol has to offer.

In Lucerne, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer.

Five days in Bristol or Lucerne?

Bristol 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.

Lucerne is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.


A week in Bristol or Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bristol. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bristol. 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 Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne or Bristol?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bristol is £91, while the average daily cost in Lucerne is £172. 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 Bristol and Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bristol £49
    Lucerne £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bristol £98
    Lucerne £220
Compare Hotels in Bristol and Lucerne

Looking for a hotel in Bristol or Lucerne? 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 Bristol


Hotels in Lucerne


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: Bristol Hotel Prices and Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Lucerne £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

Also for Bristol, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Transfer to Southampton city hotels: $781
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to London city: $680
  • Private Transfer from Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton City : $205
  • Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton hotels - Arrival Transfer: $172
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $160
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City: $148
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Car: $108
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Luxury Van: $99
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

Also for Lucerne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Bristol or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne and Bristol 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
    Bristol £32
    Lucerne £50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

For Bristol, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Lucerne £27

Tours and Activities in Bristol

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bristol.

  • 2 Hours Private Walking to Bristol Cider Tour with Cheese: $45
  • Afternoon Bath City Tour - Private tour from Bristol with a local guide: $280
  • Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol: $17
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Sketching Tour for Beginners and Improvers: $38
  • Bristol Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Bristol private pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide: $114
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol’s Darkest Secrets Tour: $25

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    £27
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    £28

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lucerne.

  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $275
  • A Wonderful Christmas Tour in Lucerne: $534
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Luzern: $563
  • Alpine Majesty:Luzern to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $821
  • Basel: Swiss Alps Glacier Express Train Ride & Lucerne Tour: $760
  • Best of Lucerne Walking Photography Tour: $179
  • Burgenstock Private Tour: Mt. Rigis & Lake of Lucerne Cruise: $585
  • City tour plus Lucerne: $95
  • Day Trip from Grindelwald First Mountain Adventure: $174
  • Day Trip to Swiss Villages from Lucerne - Small Group tour by Car: $200
  • Early morning tour: $213
  • Exploring Lucerne with Friends: A Local Experience ❤: $159

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bristol £11
    Lucerne £18

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bristol:

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bristol or Lucerne?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Bristol and Lucerne, 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 Bristol or Lucerne?

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 Bristol or Lucerne in the Summer?

Both Lucerne and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Bristol is cooler than Lucerne in the summer. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In July, Bristol usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bristol 18°C (64°F) 
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Bristol during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bristol is around the same temperature as Lucerne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bristol in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Lucerne averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in October than Lucerne. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bristol 13°C (55°F) 
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Lucerne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Lucerne. Many visitors come to Bristol in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Bristol is generally much warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 6°C (43°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Bristol usually receives more rain than Lucerne. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bristol 6°C (43°F) 
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Lucerne. Most visitors come to Bristol for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Bristol is cooler than Lucerne in the spring. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in April than Lucerne. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bristol 10°C (50°F) 
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Bristol

Bristol Lucerne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)