A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Dijon for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Lucerne or Dijon?

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 Lucerne and Dijon. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a scenic, active, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dijon

Dijon is a culinary, relaxing, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Dijon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Dijon. While Dijon is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dijon is more popular for its food. Lucerne is well known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge. Dijon is well known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lucerne or Dijon?

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Dijon and Lucerne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Dijon offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Dijon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dijon is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Dijon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne is notable for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Lucerne or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne is notable for its historic old town. However, Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Dijon?

Lucerne is notable for shopping. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Lucerne or Dijon Better for Families?

Both Lucerne and Dijon are notable family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Dijon is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Lucerne or Dijon Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Dijon both superb destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Dijon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Lucerne or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dijon is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dijon. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Dijon Better for Students?

Dijon is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Lucerne or Dijon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne and Dijon both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Dijon has a few public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Is Lucerne or Dijon a more walkable city?

Lucerne and Dijon are notable when it comes to walkability.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable city. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

Dijon is somewhat walkable. Most of the inner city is walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Dijon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Lucerne or Dijon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dijon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dijon.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dijon than Lucerne 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 Dijon.

One day in Lucerne or Dijon?

In Lucerne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this active destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Dijon, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Lucerne or Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Dijon, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dijon has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Dijon?

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Dijon is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Dijon?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dijon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dijon. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Dijon?

Dijon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Dijon, 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 Lucerne or Dijon?

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 Lucerne or Dijon in the Summer?

Both Dijon and Lucerne during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Dijon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lucerne in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Dijon averages at about 21°C (70°F).

In Dijon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lucerne. In the summer, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Dijon. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Dijon. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Dijon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Dijon. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dijon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lucerne is generally around the same temperature as Dijon. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 13°C (56°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Dijon. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lucerne or Dijon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Dijon. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dijon can be very cold during winter. Lucerne can get quite cold in the winter. Lucerne is around the same temperature as Dijon in the winter. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Dijon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in January than Dijon. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Dijon in the Spring?

Both Dijon and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dijon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Dijon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lucerne in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Dijon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Dijon during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Dijon. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dijon and Lucerne