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

Should you visit Cambridge or Zermatt?

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 Cambridge and Zermatt. 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.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a historic, beautiful, and collegiate university town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a charming, stunning, and iconic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cambridge and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cambridge or Zermatt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Cambridge and Zermatt are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cambridge is known for its museums. Zermatt is more touristy than Cambridge and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Cambridge is popular for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it.

The Matterhorn

How is Cambridge different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cambridge is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. 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.

Cambridge is not a skiing destination.

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

Cambridge 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 Cambridge specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

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 Cambridge or Zermatt? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cambridge and Zermatt offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Zermatt has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Cambridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Is Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cambridge is not a resort destination.

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

Cambridge is not a resort destination.

Is Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Cambridge is not a hiking destination.

Zermatt is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Cambridge is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cambridge or Zermatt?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Cambridge and Zermatt.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cambridge. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

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 Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Families?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cambridge. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

Is Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Zermatt is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Cambridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

Is Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Is Cambridge or Zermatt Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Cambridge. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cambridge and Zermatt.

Cambridge has some public transit options. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

You'll find some public transit in Zermatt, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Cambridge or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Cambridge and Zermatt are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cambridge. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Cambridge?

How long in Cambridge or Zermatt?

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

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

In Cambridge, you'll find nightlife and food. This university town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Zermatt. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Cambridge or Zermatt?

In Cambridge, 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 Cambridge has to offer.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the breathtaking destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Cambridge or Zermatt?

Cambridge 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.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the stunning town of Zermatt. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Cambridge or Zermatt?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cambridge. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cambridge. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, 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 Cambridge and Zermatt, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Cambridge much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cambridge would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cambridge 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 Cambridge.

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

Which is Bigger, Cambridge or Zermatt?

Cambridge has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Cambridge 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.