A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Zurich for Nightlife, Old Town, Food, and Music

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca or Zurich, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a beautiful, stunning, and cultural island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Palma de Mallorca and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palma de Mallorca. Although Palma de Mallorca and Zurich are roughly the same size, Palma de Mallorca has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palma de Mallorca is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Zurich attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Zurich and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also well known for the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Zurich can be an interesting and educational experience. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Zurich offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Palma de Mallorca is a world class party destination. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Palma de Mallorca and Zurich.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Palma de Mallorca has diverse options. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Zurich has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Zurich is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Palma de Mallorca to choose from. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Palma de Mallorca offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Many people head to Palma de Mallorca to see the old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Zurich. 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.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca and Zurich are both great destinations for the whole family.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Couples?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Palma de Mallorca is a great island to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

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

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Zurich can move around easily with public transportation. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Palma de Mallorca, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Zurich a more walkable city?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

In either Palma de Mallorca or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zurich has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zurich than Palma de Mallorca. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca than Zurich 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Palma de Mallorca. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Zurich, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palma de Mallorca. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With nightlife and live music around the liberal destination of Zurich, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, 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 Palma de Mallorca and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Palma de Mallorca much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palma de Mallorca would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

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

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Zurich?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca or Zurich in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Zurich. Many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Zurich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Zurich averages at about 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In the summer, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in July than Zurich. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Palma de Mallorca is generally a little warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 19°C (66°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during autumn. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Zurich. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Palma de Mallorca during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. Palma de Mallorca is much warmer than Zurich in the winter. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in January than Zurich. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Zurich. The spring months attract visitors to Palma de Mallorca because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In the spring, Palma de Mallorca is a little warmer than Zurich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Zurich averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during spring. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Zurich. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Palma de Mallorca