A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dover vs. Zermatt for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Dover or Zermatt?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dover and Zermatt can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Dover and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dover or Zermatt?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Dover is more popular for its museums. Zermatt is more touristy than Dover and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

The Matterhorn

How is Dover different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dover or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Dover is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Dover is not a skiing destination.

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

Dover is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

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 Dover or Zermatt? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Dover or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

Zermatt offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Dover is not a resort destination.

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

Dover is not a resort destination.

Is Dover or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Zermatt?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zermatt. 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Zermatt Better for Families?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Dover is a family-friendly town. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Is Dover or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Zermatt 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.

Dover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Is Dover or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zermatt is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

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

Zermatt is very good for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Dover?

How long in Dover or Zermatt?

In either Dover or Zermatt, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than Dover because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zermatt.

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

In Dover, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Zermatt, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this breathtaking destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dover or Zermatt?

In Dover, you'll find museums 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 Dover has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dover or Zermatt?

Dover is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 fun place to experience. In Zermatt, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dover or Zermatt?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Dover. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find nightlife and food around the iconic destination of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle 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 Dover and Zermatt, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Dover much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dover would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dover 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 Dover.

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

Which is Bigger, Dover or Zermatt?

Dover has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Dover 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 Dover or Zermatt?

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 Dover or Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year.

In the summer, Dover is cooler than Zermatt. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dover in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Zermatt averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Zermatt. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dover. Dover usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during summer. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. In July, Dover usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dover or Zermatt in the Autumn?

Both Zermatt and Dover during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Dover is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 12°C (54°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Dover often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 152 hours of full sun.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dover usually gets less rain in October than Zermatt. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dover or Zermatt in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Zermatt. Many travelers come to Dover for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Dover. Dover is cooler than Zermatt in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Zermatt fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Dover usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during winter. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dover usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dover or Zermatt in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dover as well as Zermatt. Many visitors come to Dover in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Dover is much colder than Zermatt. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dover in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Zermatt averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dover often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. Dover usually gets less rain in April than Zermatt. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Dover