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

Should you visit Dundee or Zermatt?

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

Should I visit Dundee or Zermatt? 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.

Dundee

Dundee is a coastal, cultural, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, 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. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Dundee and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Dundee or Zermatt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Dundee and Zermatt are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Dundee is known for its museums and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Dundee and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Dundee is popular for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Dundee different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Dundee
Zermatt

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for snow skiing. However, Dundee is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Zermatt should be on your list. 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.

Dundee is not a skiing destination.


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

Dundee
Zermatt

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

Dundee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. On the waterfront you'll find a couple of nautical museums such as RRS Discovery, and HM Frigate Unicorn. Other museums and sights include V&A Dundee, Tay Rail Bridge, Camperdown Wildlife Centre, and Glamis Castle.

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 Dundee or Zermatt? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dundee
Zermatt

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zermatt makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Dundee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Dundee
Zermatt

Zermatt is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dundee. The vibrant student population heavily influences the city's nightlife. There are a number of clubs and bars where you can hang out late into the night.


Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Dundee
Zermatt

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

Zermatt is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Dundee is not a resort destination.

Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Dundee
Zermatt

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Dundee is not a hiking destination.

People visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Dundee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dundee or Zermatt?

Dundee
Zermatt

Zermatt is a well-known place for shopping. However, Dundee is not a good city for its shopping opportunities.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Dundee has some nice offerings. There are shopping centers and a few independent shops that are worth checking out. Head to Overgate Shopping Centre for the standard brands or Dundee's Farmer's Market for some local produce.


Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Families?

Dundee
Zermatt

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

Zermatt is 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.

Dundee is a family-friendly city. Head to the Dundee Science Center or check out Discovery Point. There's also the Dundee Treasure Trail as well as climbing walls and other outdoor activities for when the weather's nice.

Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Dundee
Zermatt

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Zermatt makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Most people don't think of Dundee as a couple's destination. The coastal city has some nice outdoor spaces and interesting restaurants that couples can enjoy.

Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dundee
Zermatt

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zermatt. 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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Dundee or Zermatt Better for Students?

Dundee
Zermatt

Dundee is very good for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Dundee is a good city to visit for students. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Dundee
Zermatt

Both Dundee and Zermatt offer good public transit options.

Dundee has a few public transit options. The city has a public bus system.

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Dundee or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Dundee
Zermatt

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of 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.

Dundee is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walks through the town.


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

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Dundee?

How long in Dundee or Zermatt?

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

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Dundee. 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 Dundee. 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 Dundee 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.


  • How many days in Dundee or Zermatt? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dundee 1-2 
    Zermatt 2-5

One day in Dundee or Zermatt?

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dundee or Zermatt?

In Dundee, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Dundee has to offer.

Zermatt 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.

Five days in Dundee or Zermatt?

Dundee 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Dundee or Zermatt?

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

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Zermatt. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zermatt or Dundee?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Dundee is £234, while the average daily cost in Zermatt is £180. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Dundee and Zermatt in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dundee £149
    Zermatt £101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dundee £298
    Zermatt £202
Compare Hotels in Dundee and Zermatt

Looking for a hotel in Dundee or Zermatt? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Dundee


Hotels in Zermatt


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Dundee Hotel Prices and Zermatt Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dundee £16
    Zermatt £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $118
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $127
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $141
  • 3-Hour Private Transfer from Zermatt and Saa to Geneva Airport: $235
  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $1,087

Is it cheaper to fly into Dundee or Zermatt?

Prices for flights to both Zermatt and Dundee change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Dundee £47
    Zermatt £46
Typical Food Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of dining costs in Dundee are as follows:


  • Moroccan Sandwich
    £2.70
  • Drinks and Scottish Shortbread at Discovery
    £4.70
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    £8.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zermatt

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zermatt.

  • Evening Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dundee £106
    Zermatt £45
Typical Entertainment Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Dundee are as follows:


  • Newspaper
    £0.85

Tours and Activities in Dundee

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dundee are as follows:

  • Skip-the-Line: Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $6.36
  • Made in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Dundee Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Boat Seafari Adventure: $34
  • Original Dundee Photoshoot Tour: $83

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zermatt are as follows:

  • Sion Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $51
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $63
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket: $104
  • Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train Ticket: $108
  • Tapas tour in Zermatt: $111
  • Alpine Village Tour 2 hours: $126
  • Mount Gornergrat: Zermatt's Spectacular Summit Ticket: $152
  • Ticket for Zermatt Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: $154
  • Majestic Matterhorn: Zermatt to Glacier Paradise Cableway Ticket: $181
  • Mount Gornergrat Spectacular Summit Train Ticket: $183
  • Romance and Charms of Zermatt – Walking Tour: $221

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dundee £13
    Zermatt £23

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dundee and Zermatt, we can see that Dundee is more expensive. And not only is Zermatt much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zermatt would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zermatt 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 Dundee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dundee than you might in Zermatt.

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


Which is Bigger, Dundee or Zermatt?

Dundee has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Dundee 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 Dundee 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 Dundee or Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt and Dundee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dundee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Dundee is much colder than Zermatt in the summer. The daily temperature in Dundee averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Zermatt. Dundee usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during summer. Dundee gets 184 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, Dundee usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Dundee gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dundee 14°C (58°F) 
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Zermatt in the Autumn?

Both Zermatt and Dundee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dundee for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Zermatt in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dundee is much colder than Zermatt. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dundee in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Zermatt averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Dundee often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Dundee gets 100 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. Dundee usually gets less rain in October than Zermatt. Dundee gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dundee 10°C (49°F) 
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Zermatt in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dundee and Zermatt. Many visitors come to Dundee in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zermatt can be very cold during winter. Dundee can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Dundee is generally much colder than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 3°C (38°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Dundee usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during winter. Dundee gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dundee usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Dundee gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dundee 3°C (38°F) 
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Zermatt in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dundee as well as Zermatt. Most visitors come to Dundee for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Dundee is much colder than Zermatt in the spring. The daily temperature in Dundee averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dundee often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Dundee gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. Dundee usually gets less rain in April than Zermatt. Dundee gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dundee 7°C (45°F) 
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Dundee

Dundee Zermatt
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)