A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Zurich for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Hong Kong or Zurich?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Zurich, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a dense, cosmopolitan, and glamorous city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Hong Kong and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Zurich?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Zurich. Hong Kong is bigger than Zurich, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Zurich is more popular for its music and historical sights. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Hong Kong different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Zurich?

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Hong Kong, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Hong Kong and Zurich.

Hong Kong has a large number of nightlife venues. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

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 Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

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.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

Is Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong is a well-known place for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Hong Kong for it's beautiful beaches. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Zurich offers plenty to see. 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.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Hong Kong is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Zurich?

Shoppers can find a variety of world-class stores in both Hong Kong and Zurich.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Families?

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hong Kong is very family-friendly. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zurich. 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 Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Couples?

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Hong Kong is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Is Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong and Zurich are both notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hong Kong. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Zurich is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Hong Kong or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Hong Kong has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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

Is Hong Kong or Zurich a more walkable city?

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong on foot. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Zurich?

In either Hong Kong or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than Zurich because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.

One day in Hong Kong or Zurich?

Hong Kong is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

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 Hong Kong or Zurich?

Hong Kong is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful 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 Hong Kong or Zurich?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the historic 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 Hong Kong or Zurich?

Hong Kong is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hong Kong and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Hong Kong much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hong Kong is in Asia and Zurich is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Hong Kong would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.

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

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Zurich?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong 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.