A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Zermatt for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nottingham or Zermatt?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Zermatt 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a dynamic, livable, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Nottingham and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Zermatt?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Nottingham and Zermatt are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Nottingham is known for its museums, music, and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Nottingham and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Nottingham different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is very popular for winter skiing. However, Nottingham is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Zermatt. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Nottingham is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Zermatt?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Nottingham is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Zermatt? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zermatt makes for a great culinary experience. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is well known for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Zermatt is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.


Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Music?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Nottingham is very good for live music. However, Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Zermatt is not a live music destination.

Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is well known for its resorts. However, Nottingham is not a resort destination.

In Zermatt, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Nottingham is not a resort destination.

Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Around Zermatt visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Zermatt?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zermatt and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Zermatt is well-known for its shopping. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Families?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly place to visit. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is very popular for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Zermatt is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.


Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is well known for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zermatt. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Zermatt Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Nottingham is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Nottingham or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Zermatt

Zermatt is very popular for its walkability. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Zermatt on foot is easy. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Zermatt Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Zermatt?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt than Nottingham 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 Zermatt.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Zermatt? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Zermatt 2-5

One day in Nottingham or Zermatt?

In Nottingham, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With shopping and skiing around the stunning town of Zermatt, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nottingham or Zermatt?

In Nottingham, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Nottingham has to offer.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Zermatt, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Nottingham or Zermatt?

Nottingham 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.

Zermatt, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Nottingham or Zermatt?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Nottingham. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Zermatt is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zermatt or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Zermatt is £180. 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 Nottingham and Zermatt in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Zermatt £101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Zermatt £202
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Zermatt

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Zermatt? 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 Nottingham


Hotels in Zermatt


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Zermatt Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Zermatt £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • 3-Hour Private Transfer from Zermatt and Saa to Geneva Airport: $235
  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $118
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $127
  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $1,087
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $141

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Zermatt?

Prices for flights to both Zermatt and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Zermatt £46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zermatt

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zermatt.

  • Evening Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Zermatt £45

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

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

  • Sion Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $51
  • Sunnegga Funicular Ticket for Iconic Matterhorn Viewpoint: $63
  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket: $104
  • Gornergrat Bahn Cogwheel Train Ticket: $108
  • Tapas tour in Zermatt: $111
  • Alpine Village Tour 2 hours: $126
  • Mount Gornergrat: Zermatt's Spectacular Summit Ticket: $152
  • Ticket for Zermatt Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: $154
  • Majestic Matterhorn: Zermatt to Glacier Paradise Cableway Ticket: $181
  • Mount Gornergrat Spectacular Summit Train Ticket: $183
  • Romance and Charms of Zermatt – Walking Tour: $221

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Zermatt £23

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Zermatt?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Zermatt, 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 Nottingham or Zermatt?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Zermatt in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Zermatt. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Nottingham is cooler than Zermatt in the summer. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Zermatt in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Zermatt. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nottingham is cooler than Zermatt. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nottingham in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Zermatt averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Zermatt. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Zermatt in the Winter?

Both Zermatt and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. In January, Nottingham is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 4°C (39°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Zermatt in the Spring?

Both Zermatt and Nottingham during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Nottingham is much colder than Zermatt in the spring. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Zermatt. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Nottingham

Nottingham Zermatt
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)