A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Zurich for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Zurich?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Zurich. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Lake District National Park and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
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 students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich. Although Lake District National Park and Zurich are both popular with visitors, Zurich has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zurich is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Lake District National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster.

How is Lake District National Park different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Zurich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Zurich both to be excellent destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

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.

Is Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Zurich has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Music?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Zurich has diverse options. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Zurich is revered around 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.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Zurich specifically to go shopping. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Both Lake District National Park and Zurich are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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.

Is Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Lake District National Park and Zurich both excellent destinations for a couple.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

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 Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

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

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Is Lake District National Park or Zurich Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Zurich offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Zurich a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Zurich

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Zurich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Zurich 2-5

One day in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Zurich. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Zurich for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the liberal destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Lake District National Park or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the spectacular destination of Lake District National Park. This national park 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zurich or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, 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 Lake District National Park and Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Zurich £137
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Zurich £274
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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: Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Zurich £29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33
  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44

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:Transfer and Ticket to Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum: $109
  • Transfer from/to Hotel - Airport: $160
  • Private Transfer to/from Zurich Airport: $108
  • One-Way Private Airport Transfer: $131
  • 1-Way Private Transfer from the airport to Zurich: $188
  • Zurich to Basel Private Direct Transfer: $205
  • Zurich Private Airport and Hotels Transfer with Round-Trip: $149
  • Zurich Airport: Private Transfer to/from Zurich City: $109
  • Zurich Airport: Private Transfer to/from Lucerne: $251
  • Zurich Airport: Private Transfer to Greater Zurich Area: $109
  • Zurich Airport: Private Transfer from Greater Zurich Area: $109
  • Zurich Airport: Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Lucerne: $328

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Zurich?

Prices for flights to both Zurich and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Zurich £50

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.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Zurich £29

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

Tours and Activities in Zurich

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

  • 007-Elegance: Exclusive Private Tour Schilthorn from Zürich: $627
  • 3 Hours Private Tour Around Zurich: $224
  • 3 in 1: Zurich Walking Tour - Cruise on the Lake - Cable Car Ride to Felsenegg: $101
  • Adventure to Mount Pilatus Gold and Silver tour: $157
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Zürich: $650
  • Alpine Majesty:Zürich to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $799
  • Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich: $129
  • Best Intro Tour of Zurich with a Local: $124
  • Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Best of Zurich Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride : $73
  • Best of Zurich and Surroundings - Extended City Sightseeing Tour: $87
  • Bike Private Tour with Pickup and Drop off From Zurich: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Zurich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Zurich. The summer months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In July, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Zurich. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Zurich 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Zurich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Zurich. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Zurich 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Lake District National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zurich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Lake District National Park. In the winter, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Zurich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Zurich averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Zurich. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Zurich 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Zurich. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zurich for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zurich. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Zurich 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Zurich and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Zurich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)