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

Should you visit Bristol or Zurich?

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 Zurich 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Bristol and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bristol or Zurich?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zurich than Bristol. While Bristol is larger than Zurich, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is more popular for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bristol is known for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Bristol and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Bristol is popular for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies.

How is Bristol different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zurich 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 Zurich?

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Zurich 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 Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Zurich 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.

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

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 Zurich Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Zurich has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Bristol or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is great for its music scene. However, Bristol is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich draws a good crowd. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Bristol is not a live music destination.

Is Bristol or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Zurich offers plenty to see. 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.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Zurich?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. 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.

Bristol is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Is Bristol or Zurich Better for Families?

Zurich 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 Zurich. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

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

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Zurich is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Zurich is a very popular city for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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.

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

Zurich is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Zurich can get you to most places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Is Bristol or Zurich a more walkable city?

Bristol and Zurich are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Zurich?

In either Bristol or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich 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 Zurich.

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

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

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

One day in Bristol or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bristol. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Bristol or Zurich?

Bristol 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 Bristol or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bristol. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Bristol or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Bristol. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 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 Zurich, we can see that Zurich 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 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 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 Zurich Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bristol or Zurich?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol or Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Bristol during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bristol is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 18°C (64°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in July than Zurich. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Zurich in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Zurich. Many travelers come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bristol is around the same temperature as Zurich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In October, Bristol usually receives more rain than Zurich. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bristol or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Zurich. Many visitors come to Bristol in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bristol is much warmer than Zurich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bristol in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Zurich averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Zurich. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Zurich in the Spring?

Both Zurich and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bristol for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty.

In April, Bristol is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 10°C (50°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Zurich. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Bristol