A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Zurich for Attractions, Music, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Edinburgh or Zurich?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Zurich can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a charming, character-filled, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Edinburgh is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, shopping, and museums. See Edinburgh travel costs.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of Zurich is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Zurich travel costs.

Edinburgh and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
  • Home to the Edinburgh Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Zurich?

You'll generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Zurich. Edinburgh is bigger than Zurich, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Zurich is more popular for its food and shopping. Edinburgh is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Edinburgh different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh
Zurich

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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.


Is Edinburgh or Zurich Better for Theater?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Zurich is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Zurich is not a theatre destination.

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

Edinburgh
Zurich

Zurich is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Zurich has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh
Zurich

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Edinburgh and Zurich.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.


Is Edinburgh or Zurich Better for Music?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Is Edinburgh or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Both Edinburgh and Zurich have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

Edinburgh has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

The old town of Zurich is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Zurich?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Zurich is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.


Is Edinburgh or Zurich More Beautiful?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Edinburgh and Zurich are somewhat similar when it comes to the very good scenery.

The beauty of Edinburgh is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It has a long history and a lot of architectural beauty. The weather may be the most challenging part of a visit to Edinburgh.

With stunning beauty, Zurich attracts visitors from all around. With Lake Zurich and the mountains as a backdrop, this is a truly beautiful city.

Is Edinburgh or Zurich Better for Families?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Both Edinburgh and Zurich are very good to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Zurich Better for Couples?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Both Edinburgh and Zurich are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.


Is Edinburgh or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Zurich Better for Students?

Edinburgh
Zurich

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

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

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Edinburgh
Zurich

Zurich is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Zurich can get you to some places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.


Is Edinburgh or Zurich a more walkable city?

Edinburgh
Zurich

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Edinburgh on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Zurich?

In either Edinburgh or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Edinburgh than Zurich. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Edinburgh than Zurich. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Edinburgh, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Edinburgh than Zurich. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Edinburgh that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Zurich 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 Edinburgh.


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

One day in Edinburgh or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Edinburgh. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Zurich. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Edinburgh or Zurich?

Edinburgh 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.

You'll find live music and food around the historic destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Edinburgh or Zurich?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the liberal city of Zurich. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the ancient destination of Edinburgh. 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.

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zurich or Edinburgh?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Edinburgh is £171, while the average daily cost in Zurich is £218. 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 Edinburgh and Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Edinburgh £74
    Zurich £138
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Edinburgh £148
    Zurich £276
Compare Hotels in Edinburgh and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh


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: Edinburgh Hotel Prices and Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Edinburgh £17
    Zurich £29
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Edinburgh

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


  • Local Bus
    £3.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edinburgh

Also for Edinburgh, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Edinburgh Airport: Bus Transfer: $7.13
  • Private Transfer from Newhaven Port to Edinburgh Airport EDI: $29
  • Private Transfer from Newhaven Cruise Port to Edinburgh hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from Edinburgh Airport to South Queensferry Port: $29
  • Private Transfer from South Queensferry Port to Edinburgh hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from South Queensferry Port to Edinburgh Airport: $29
  • Private Transfer from Newhaven Cruise Port to Glasgow Airport: $36
  • Edinburgh Airport: Private Arrival or Departure Transfers: $39
  • Private One way Transfer Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh: $41
  • Private Transfer - South Queensferry Port to Glasgow Airport(GLA): $46
  • Private Transfer from South Queensferry Port to Glasgow Hotels: $51
  • Edinburgh Accommodation to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - Departure Private Transfer: $60

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:

  • Private Transfer to/from Zurich Airport: $109
  • Private Transfer to Interlaken in a Luxury Limousine: $748
  • One-Way Private Airport Transfer: $138
  • Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum Ticket & Transfer: $115
  • Airport Transfer in a Limousine: $125
  • Airport Transfer by Luxury Limousine: $125
  • 1-Way Private Transfer from the airport to Zurich: $198
  • Zurich to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Private Transfer : $42
  • Zurich to Basel Private Direct Transfer: $207
  • Zurich Private Transfer to/from Zurich Airport: $41
  • Zurich City to Zurich Airport one way Private Transfer : $105
  • Zurich City to Zurich Airport ZRH Private Transfer Service: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Edinburgh or Zurich?

Prices for flights to both Zurich and Edinburgh 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
    Edinburgh £68
    Zurich £50
Typical Food Prices in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Breakfast
    £8.50
  • Dinner at Filling Station
    £10
  • Lunch for Two
    £15
  • Sandwich
    £1.85
  • Cheese & bread
    £7.23
  • Thai Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    £25
  • 2 Coffees and Scones
    £5.80
  • Turkish Delight
    £1.40
  • Soup at the Pub
    £5.90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $32
  • Plant-based Food Tours of the Old Town: $71
  • Edinburgh Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $90
  • Scottish Dinner and Folk Music Experience: $91
  • Food Tour with drinks: $110
  • Taste & Tour: Edinburgh Food Tour with Drinks: $112
  • 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour: $120
  • Traditional Scottish Cuisine Food Tour: $123
  • A Taste Of Edinburgh Food Tour. Includes All Food & Drinks: $123
  • Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $125
  • The 10 Tastings of Edinburgh With Locals: Private Food Tour: $159

Typical Food Prices in Zurich

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


  • Breakfast for 2
    £11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zurich

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

  • Secret Food Tours in Zurich: $148
  • Italian Cooking Class with A Tavola: $156

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Edinburgh £20
    Zurich £29
Typical Entertainment Prices in Edinburgh

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Edinburgh's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Show Tickets
    £32
  • Movie Tickets for Two
    £12
  • Donation for Storytellers
    £6.00

Tours and Activities in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Edinburgh Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Tour: $3.31
  • Audio Tour Royal Mile: from the Castle to "The Tron Kirk": $5.39
  • Edinburgh Royal mile: Self-guided walking tour: $7.13
  • Harry Potter-Themed self-guided tour with app: $7.13
  • The Headless Horseman in Self-guided walking tour game: $7.66
  • the FULL Royal Mile Tour - from Palace to Palace!: $7.78
  • Mary Queen of Scots: Edinburgh Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Edinburgh/Royal Mile in 1 Day: Walking Tour - Audioguide: $8.10
  • Harry Potter’s A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Enlightenment in A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Old Town Walking Tour with an APP: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Edinburgh by Operation City Quest: $11

Tours and Activities in Zurich

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

  • (KTZ366) - Interlaken & Harder Kulm Small Group Tour from Zurich: $164
  • 007-Elegance: Exclusive Private Tour Schilthorn from Zürich: $661
  • 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg: $106
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Zürich: $685
  • Alpine Majesty:Zürich to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $843
  • Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich: $136
  • Best Intro Tour of Zurich with a Local: $164
  • Best of Zürich & Surroundings: Walking Tour, Cable Car and Ferry: $94
  • Best of Zurich Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride : $78
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $129
  • Bike Private Tour with Pickup and Drop off From Zurich: $150
  • Cascading Majesty: Rhine Waterfalls Private Tour from Zürich: $532

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Edinburgh £15
    Zurich £24
Typical Alcohol Prices in Edinburgh

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Edinburgh from other travelers:


  • Beer & Wine
    £14
  • Half Pint at Tollbooth Tavern
    £1.65

Sample the Local Flavors in Edinburgh

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

  • Pub Crawl with Free Shots & Discounts: $12
  • Edinburgh Bar Crawl: 5+ Venues, Free Shots, Free Club Entry: $19
  • Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery: $26
  • Pub Crawl 7 Bars with 6 Shots: $26
  • Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting: $26
  • Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour with "Real-Actors": $26
  • Tranent: Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery Tour and Tasting: $27
  • Whisky Tasting and Tales at Summerhall Distillery: $32
  • Lind & Lime Gin Distillery Tour & Tasting: $32
  • Pickering's Distillery Tasting Tour (Gin Jolly): $32
  • Visit a Working South Loch Gin Distillery: $33
  • Holyrood Distillery Whisky & Gin Tour: $35

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 Zurich: $33
  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $35
  • Informative wine tasting with Italian appetizers in the secure wine cellar: $164


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edinburgh and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Edinburgh much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Edinburgh would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

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


Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Zurich?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Zurich?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Zurich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Zurich. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Edinburgh is cooler than Zurich in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Zurich. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Edinburgh or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is cooler than Zurich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Zurich averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zurich. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Edinburgh or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Edinburgh during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. Edinburgh can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Edinburgh is generally around the same temperature as Zurich. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Zurich. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Edinburgh or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Zurich. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty.

Edinburgh is much colder than Zurich in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Zurich. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Zurich and Edinburgh

Edinburgh Zurich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 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) 56 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)