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

Should you visit Bucharest or Zurich?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Zurich. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming 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 beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Bucharest and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Zurich?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zurich than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Zurich, Zurich has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Zurich is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Zurich?

Zurich is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

Zurich is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for its live music scene. However, Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Is Bucharest or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Zurich is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Zurich?

Zurich is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Zurich Better for Families?

Zurich is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Zurich Better for Couples?

Zurich is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest and Zurich are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Bucharest or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is renowned for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Zurich.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Zurich offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Is Bucharest or Zurich a more walkable city?

Zurich is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Zurich?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Bucharest. 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 Bucharest. 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Zurich?

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

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Zurich. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Zurich?

Bucharest 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.

You'll find live music and food around the historic destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic city of Zurich. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered destination of Bucharest. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, 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 Bucharest and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bucharest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bucharest 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 Bucharest.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Zurich?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Zurich?

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 Bucharest or Zurich in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Zurich. The summer months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Zurich in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In Bucharest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Zurich. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Zurich in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Zurich. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Zurich. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Bucharest. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Zurich. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Zurich in the Spring?

Both Zurich and Bucharest during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Zurich for the natural beauty during these months.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Zurich in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Bucharest