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

Should you visit Dundee or Zurich?

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

Should I visit Dundee 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.

Dundee

Dundee is a cultural, historic, and coastal 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, museums, and nightlife.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Dundee and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Dundee or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Dundee. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dundee attracts visitors for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Dundee and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Dundee is famous for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design.

How is Dundee different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Dundee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich 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, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich 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.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Music?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for live music. However, Dundee is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Dundee is not a live music destination.


Is Dundee or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Zurich offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dundee or Zurich?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Dundee is not a good city for its shopping opportunities.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

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 Zurich Better for Families?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich 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.

Zurich is 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.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is a popular place for backpackers. However, Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Dundee or Zurich Better for Students?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

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


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

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Zurich can move around easily with public transportation. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Dundee or Zurich a more walkable city?

Dundee
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

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 Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Dundee?

How long in Dundee or Zurich?

In either Dundee or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich 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 Zurich.

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


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

One day in Dundee or Zurich?

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Dundee or Zurich?

Dundee 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Zurich?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Zurich?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic destination of Zurich. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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, Zurich 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 Zurich is £216. 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 Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dundee £149
    Zurich £137
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dundee £298
    Zurich £274
Compare Hotels in Dundee and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Dundee or Zurich? 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 Zurich


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 Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dundee £16
    Zurich £29

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    £23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich - Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Private Transfer From Hotel To Zurich Airport or Vice Versa: $56
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer Zurich Airport To/From Zurich: $65
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Vals Thermal Resorts - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Noumea Cruise Port to Noumea hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $71
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Badenweiler Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich City Center: $76
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $78
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Business Car: $82
  • Private Transfer From Hotel in Zurich To Zurich Airport: $87
  • Private Transfer From Zurich Airport To Hotel in Zurich: $87
  • Private Zurich Transfer: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Dundee or Zurich?

Prices for flights to both Zurich 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
    Zurich £50
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

Typical Food Prices in Zurich

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


  • Breakfast for 2
    £11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dundee £106
    Zurich £29
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 Zurich

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Reading Tour: $5.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Zurich Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Fun adventure tour of Outdoor Escape Game: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Zürich: Swiss Finance Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Dark Side of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dundee £13
    Zurich £24

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $31
  • eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour Zürich: $129


When comparing the travel costs between Dundee and Zurich, we can see that Dundee is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Dundee or Zurich?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dundee. When comparing the sizes of Dundee 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 Dundee 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 Dundee or Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Dundee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dundee for 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.

In the summer, Dundee is cooler than Zurich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dundee in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Zurich averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Zurich. Dundee usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during summer. Dundee gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dundee usually receives less rain than Zurich. Dundee gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dundee 14°C (58°F) 
    Zurich 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Dundee during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Dundee because of 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 October, Dundee is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 10°C (49°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Dundee often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Dundee gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in October than Zurich. Dundee gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dundee 10°C (49°F) 
    Zurich 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dundee and Zurich. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dundee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. It's quite cold in Dundee in the winter. Dundee is around the same temperature as Zurich in the winter. The daily temperature in Dundee averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Dundee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich during winter. Dundee gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dundee usually receives less rain than Zurich. Dundee gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dundee 3°C (38°F) 
    Zurich 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dundee as well as Zurich. Many travelers come to Dundee for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dundee is much colder than Zurich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dundee in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Zurich averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Dundee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich. Dundee gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Dundee gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dundee 7°C (45°F) 
    Zurich 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Zurich and Dundee

Dundee Zurich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)