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

Should you visit Bristol or Zermatt?

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 Zermatt 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 friendly, authentic, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

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. It's also popular because of the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Bristol and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bristol or Zermatt?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Bristol, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bristol is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Bristol and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Bristol is well known for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies.

The Matterhorn

How is Bristol different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Bristol or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

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

Visitors will find world class skiing in Zermatt. 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.

Bristol is not a skiing destination.

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

Bristol 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 Bristol specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

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

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

Zermatt has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Bristol offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Bristol or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Bristol and Zermatt.

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.

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 Bristol or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

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

In Zermatt, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Bristol is not a resort destination.

Is Bristol or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Bristol is not a hiking destination.

Around Zermatt visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Bristol is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Zermatt?

If you're looking to go shopping, Bristol and Zermatt both offer plenty of superb 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.

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.

Is Bristol or Zermatt Better for Families?

Zermatt is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zermatt. 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.

Bristol is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Bristol or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Zermatt is a great town for couples, as it 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.

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 Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Zermatt Better for Students?

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

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

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Bristol and Zermatt both offer notable 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.

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 Bristol or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Zermatt?

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

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

One day in Bristol or Zermatt?

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 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 Bristol or Zermatt?

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 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 Bristol or Zermatt?

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.

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 Bristol or Zermatt?

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 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours 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 Bristol and Zermatt, we can see that Zermatt 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 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 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 Zermatt Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bristol or Zermatt?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol or Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt and Bristol during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bristol in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Bristol is cooler than Zermatt. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bristol in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Zermatt averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bristol usually gets less rain in July than Zermatt. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Zermatt in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Zermatt. Most visitors come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bristol is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 13°C (55°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bristol usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bristol or Zermatt in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Zermatt. The winter months attract visitors to Bristol because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. Bristol is a little warmer than Zermatt in the winter. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Zermatt fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Zermatt. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Zermatt in the Spring?

Both Zermatt and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bristol is cooler than Zermatt. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bristol in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Zermatt averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Bristol