A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Turin (Torino) for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Lucerne or Turin (Torino)?

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 Turin (Torino). 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 cultural, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a authentic, historic, and lively city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Turin (Torino): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Turin (Torino)?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Turin (Torino). While Turin (Torino) is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Turin (Torino) attracts visitors for its food. Lucerne is more touristy than Turin (Torino) and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Turin (Torino) is famous for its grand squares, beautiful palaces, and easy access to the Alps.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Turin (Torino)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Turin (Torino) 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.

Turin (Torino) offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city boasts a number of museums including The Egyptian Museum, Museo Nazionale del Cinema, and Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile. Other landmarks include the Royal Armory, The Cathedral and the Holy Shroud, and Palazzo Madama.

Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Turin (Torino)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Turin (Torino) 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.

Turin (Torino) has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region has been credited with being the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement. The dishes often use locally made ingredients and there are very diverse flavors and recipes. Local favorites include antipasto misto, risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto), and carne cruda (beef tartare).

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 Turin (Torino) Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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 Turin (Torino). There's a good nightlife scene that includes everything from bars to dance clubs. Via Po is one of the city's main bar hopping streets. For a more relaxed night out head to Via Garibaldi which has a number of restaurants and cocktail bars.

Is Lucerne or Turin (Torino) Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Turin (Torino) does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lucerne to see the historical old town. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Turin (Torino) does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Turin (Torino)?

Lucerne is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lucerne. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Turin (Torino). The city has everything from high end shopping to local boutiques. For the best luxury shopping head to Via Roma. Via Garibaldi is another popular pedestrian street that has many shops and restaurants.

Is Lucerne or Turin (Torino) Better for Families?

Both Lucerne and Turin (Torino) are nice 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.

Turin (Torino) is a family-friendly place to visit. If the kids need to stretch their legs, head to Valentino Park. For kid-friendly museums, check out The Cinema Museum The Egyptian Museum, or the Museum of Car. It's also fun to take a ride of the historic tram.

Is Lucerne or Turin (Torino) Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Turin (Torino) both great 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.

Turin (Torino) is a very popular place to visit for couples. With grand squares, beautiful architecture, and excellent cuisine, couples will enjoy every minute of their trip to Turin. The city is also near the Alps, so outdoor adventure isn't far away.

Is Lucerne or Turin (Torino) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Turin (Torino) is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Turin (Torino). You'll find hostels around town and easy access to outdoor activities. The city also has great food and a lively atmosphere.

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 Turin (Torino) Better for Students?

Turin (Torino) is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Many students visit Turin (Torino). It's relatively easy to find study abroad opportunities to the area. The city's atmosphere is diverse and fun with many activities that the student population can enjoy.

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 Turin (Torino) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Turin (Torino) is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Turin (Torino). The public transit system is operated by Gruppo Torinese Trasporti (GTT) and includes one metro line, nine tram lines, and a number of bus lines.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Lucerne or Turin (Torino) a more walkable city?

Lucerne and Turin (Torino) are nice 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.

Turin (Torino) is somewhat walkable. While the city is large, the city center is generally compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Turin (Torino) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Turin (Torino) or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Turin (Torino)?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lucerne and Turin (Torino). In our opinion, Turin (Torino) has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Turin (Torino) than Lucerne. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-3 days is enough time in Turin (Torino).

Couples should spend more time in Lucerne than Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino).

One day in Lucerne or Turin (Torino)?

In Lucerne, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Turin (Torino), you'll find nightlife and 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 Turin (Torino)?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Turin (Torino), you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Turin (Torino) has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Turin (Torino)?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Lucerne. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Turin (Torino). Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Turin (Torino). 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Turin (Torino)?

Turin (Torino) has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Turin (Torino), 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.