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

Should you visit Nagano or Zurich?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nagano and Zurich can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nagano

Nagano is a alpine, scenic, and historic 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Nagano and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Zurich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nagano. Although Nagano and Zurich are roughly the same size, Nagano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nagano is better known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and big city activities, while Zurich is more popular for its music, historical sights, and shopping. Nagano is well known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Also, Nagano is famous for Zenko-ji Temple. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Nagano different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Zurich Better for Skiing?

Nagano is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Zurich is not a skiing destination.

People head to Nagano specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Zurich is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagano or Zurich?

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Nagano and Zurich.

Nagano has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Dining out in Zurich is an experience not to be missed. 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 Nagano or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Nagano and Zurich.

The nightlife in Nagano has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Nagano or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for its live music scene. However, Nagano is not a live music destination.

Zurich has a thriving music scene. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Nagano is not a live music destination.

Is Nagano or Zurich Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a good destination for its resorts. However, Zurich is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Nagano makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is terrific for its old town. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Zurich has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Is Nagano or Zurich Better for Hiking?

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

Nagano is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Zurich?

Zurich is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Zurich draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Nagano or Zurich Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Zurich are very good to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Zurich is known to be 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 Nagano or Zurich Better for Couples?

Zurich is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Nagano or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Zurich are notable places to visit.

Nagano is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

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

Is Nagano or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

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

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

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

Zurich is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Is Nagano or Zurich a more walkable city?

Zurich is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagano Worth Visiting? and Is Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Zurich?

In either Nagano or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than Nagano because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagano, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Nagano. 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 Nagano 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.

One day in Nagano or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Zurich?

Nagano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagano or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagano. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagano or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the traditional destination of Nagano. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the liberal destination of Zurich. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, 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 Nagano and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Nagano much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nagano 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 Nagano would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nagano 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 Nagano.

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Zurich?

Nagano has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Nagano 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.

When is the best time to visit Nagano 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 Nagano or Zurich in the Summer?

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

Nagano is a little warmer than Zurich in the summer. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in July than Zurich. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Zurich in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Nagano is a little warmer than Zurich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nagano in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Zurich averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during autumn. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nagano usually receives more rain than Zurich. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nagano or Zurich in the Winter?

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

Zurich can be very cold during winter. Nagano can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Nagano is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 2°C (36°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nagano this time of the year. In the winter, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nagano usually gets more rain in January than Zurich. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Zurich in the Spring?

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

Nagano is around the same temperature as Zurich in the spring. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during spring. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nagano usually receives more rain than Zurich. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Nagano