A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Zurich for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a dynamic, livable, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Nottingham and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Nottingham. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nottingham attracts visitors for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Nottingham and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine.

How is Nottingham different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich 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, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Zurich

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

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Music?

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich is well known for live music. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its live music scene.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue 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.


Is Nottingham or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich is very popular for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Zurich has a world-famous historical 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.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Zurich?

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich is very popular for shopping. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Nottingham or Zurich Better for Families?

Nottingham
Zurich

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

Zurich is 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.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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 Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Zurich Better for Students?

Nottingham
Zurich

Zurich is very popular for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


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

Nottingham
Zurich

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Nottingham and Zurich.

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.

Public transit in Zurich can get you to some places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Is Nottingham or Zurich a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Zurich

Nottingham and Zurich both are very good when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. 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.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Zurich?

In either Nottingham or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich 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 Zurich.

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

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


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

One day in Nottingham or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nottingham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

With live music and food around the liberal city of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Nottingham or Zurich?

Nottingham 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. 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.

Zurich, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Nottingham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Zurich is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. 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, Zurich 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 Zurich is £216. 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 Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Zurich £137
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Zurich £274
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Zurich? 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 Zurich


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 Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Zurich £29

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    £23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes S Class 3pax: $179
  • Airport Zurich Transfer Mercedes V-Class 6pax: $168
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City by Luxury Van: $138
  • Arrival Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Luxury Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer from Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich City in Private Car/Van: $95
  • Davos: Private Transfer to/from Zurich Airport: $601
  • Departure Private Transfer from Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH by Luxury Van: $138
  • Departure Transfer from Zurich City to Zurich Airport ZRH in Private Car/Van: $95
  • EnglishPrivate One Way Transfer Zurich Airport To Davos: $374
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $78
  • From Zurich Airport: Private Transfer to Lucerne: $314
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Zurich?

Prices for flights to both Zurich 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
    Zurich £50

Typical Food Prices in Zurich

Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:


  • Breakfast for 2
    £11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Zurich £29

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 Zurich

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Reading Tour: $5.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Zurich Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Fun adventure tour of Outdoor Escape Game: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Zürich: Swiss Finance Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Dark Side of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Zurich £24

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 Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $31
  • eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour Zürich: $129


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nottingham and Zurich, we can see that Zurich 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 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 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 Zurich Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Zurich?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Zurich?

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 Zurich in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Zurich. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nottingham is cooler than Zurich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nottingham in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Zurich averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Zurich. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Zurich 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Zurich in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Zurich. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nottingham is generally cooler than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 11°C (52°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Zurich. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Zurich 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the winter for 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. Nottingham can get quite cold in the winter. Nottingham is a little warmer than Zurich in the winter. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Zurich. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Zurich 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Zurich in the Spring?

Both Zurich and Nottingham during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nottingham is cooler than Zurich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nottingham in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Zurich averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Zurich 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Zurich and Nottingham

Nottingham Zurich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)