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

Should you visit Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

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 Kitzbuhel. 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a breathtaking, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled ski resort. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Lucerne and Kitzbuhel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lucerne. Although Lucerne and Kitzbuhel are both popular with visitors, Lucerne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lucerne is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Kitzbuhel is known for its skiing, food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also home to The Chapel Bridge. Kitzbuhel is popular for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Kitzbuhel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lucerne or Kitzbuhel Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel is very popular for skiing. However, Lucerne is not a skiing destination.

Kitzbuhel is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Lucerne is not a skiing destination.

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

Lucerne is great for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

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

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

Kitzbuhel has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

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 Kitzbuhel Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Lucerne and Kitzbuhel.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. 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.

Kitzbuhel has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

Is Lucerne or Kitzbuhel Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Lucerne and Kitzbuhel.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Is Lucerne or Kitzbuhel Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel is very popular for hiking. However, Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Kitzbuhel is well-known for its hiking and trekking. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

Lucerne is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its shopping areas.

Lucerne is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Is Lucerne or Kitzbuhel Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kitzbuhel. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Lucerne or Kitzbuhel Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Is Lucerne or Kitzbuhel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kitzbuhel. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

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 Kitzbuhel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lucerne and Kitzbuhel both offer good 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.

Kitzbuhel has a few public transit options. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Is Lucerne or Kitzbuhel a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable destination. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kitzbuhel or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

Both Lucerne and Kitzbuhel have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Lucerne. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 4-7 days is enough time in Kitzbuhel.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel.

One day in Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This ski resort 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 Kitzbuhel?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Lucerne. 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.

Kitzbuhel might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Lucerne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kitzbuhel has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

Lucerne 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kitzbuhel. Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Budget Tours to Austria, and The Best Luxury Tours to Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Kitzbuhel?

Lucerne has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Kitzbuhel, 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.