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

Should you visit Canberra or Zurich?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Zurich? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Zurich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich. Although Canberra and Zurich are roughly the same size, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is more popular for its hiking and big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Canberra different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Canberra and Zurich.

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Canberra and Zurich.

Canberra has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Dining out in Zurich is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Canberra is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Zurich has diverse options. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Canberra is not a live music destination.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Zurich has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Canberra offers some nice hiking trails. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Zurich?

Zurich is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Zurich draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Zurich.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Zurich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for Couples?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Canberra or Zurich a more walkable city?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Zurich?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Canberra. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Zurich offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Canberra or Zurich?

Canberra 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.

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Canberra or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Canberra or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Canberra. 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, 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 Canberra and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Canberra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Canberra is in Pacific and Zurich is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Canberra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Canberra 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 Canberra.

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

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Zurich?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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 Canberra or Zurich?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Zurich has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Canberra or Zurich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Zurich. Most visitors come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Canberra is around the same temperature as Zurich in the summer. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F)in July.

Canberra usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Zurichin July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Canberra because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In the autumn, Canberra is a little warmer than Zurich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Canberra in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Zurich averages at about 13°C (56°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Canberra. In April, Canberra usually receives more rain than Zurichin October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Canberra or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Canberra during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Canberra this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. In July, Canberra is generally much warmer than Zurichin January. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 11°C (52°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Canberra usually gets less rain in July than Zurichin January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Zurich. Many travelers come to Canberra for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty.

Canberra is a little warmer than Zurich in the spring. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 15°C (60°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F)in April.

In October, Canberra usually receives more rain than Zurichin April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Canberra