A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Snowdonia National Park vs. Zermatt for Skiing, Hiking, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a rugged, stunning, and natural national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Snowdonia National Park attracts visitors for its beaches. Zermatt is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Snowdonia National Park is famous for its beautiful mountain landscape.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a good national park for skiing and snowboarding.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Snowdonia National Park for snow skiing. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Zermatt is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Zermatt offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Zermatt is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zermatt. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Zermatt is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Zermatt offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zermatt. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Snowdonia National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Snowdonia National Park is very good for its beaches. However, Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Snowdonia National Park to enjoy the beach. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Zermatt is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

You'll find fantastic hiking in both Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt.

Many people visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Known for its hiking, Zermatt draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Zermatt is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zermatt is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zermatt. 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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Both Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Snowdonia National Park has plenty to offer. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

Zermatt has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Both Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt are very good destinations for backpackers.

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Both Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt offer nice public transit options.

Snowdonia National Park has a few public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Zermatt

Zermatt is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Zermatt Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

In either Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Zermatt because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zermatt.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Snowdonia National Park. 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 Snowdonia National Park. 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 Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Zermatt 2-5

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the charming town of Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

Snowdonia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Snowdonia National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


A week in Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Snowdonia National Park. In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zermatt or Snowdonia National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, 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 Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Zermatt £101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Zermatt £202
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park


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: Zermatt Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Zermatt £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt?

Prices for flights to both Zermatt and Snowdonia National Park 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
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    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.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Zermatt £45

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

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
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Zermatt £23

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 Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Snowdonia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Snowdonia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year.

In July, Snowdonia National Park is generally much colder than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 15°C (60°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Zermatt. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Snowdonia National Park. Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. In July, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt in the Autumn?

Both Zermatt and Snowdonia National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Zermatt in the autumn. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Zermatt fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 152 hours of full sun.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in October than Zermatt. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Zermatt. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Zermatt. Typically, the winter temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Zermatt averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Zermatt. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Zermatt in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Zermatt. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Snowdonia National Park is generally much colder than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 8°C (47°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zermatt. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in April than Zermatt. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Zermatt
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)