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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Zurich?

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 Zurich 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. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Snowdonia National Park and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zurich than Snowdonia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zurich is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Snowdonia National Park is more popular for its skiing, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Zurich is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster. Snowdonia National Park is well known for its beautiful mountain landscape.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Snowdonia National Park is a moderate national park for snow skiing. However, Zurich is not a skiing destination.

Snowdonia National Park is a fun local destination for snow skiers. 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.

Zurich is not a skiing destination.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich 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 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.

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 Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

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

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for Music?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Snowdonia National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Snowdonia National Park is a good destination for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Snowdonia National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Snowdonia National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Snowdonia National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Zurich?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Zurich make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Zurich.

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 Zurich. 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 Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Snowdonia National Park is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Snowdonia National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

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.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Snowdonia National Park 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.

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich Better for Students?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a must-visit destination for students. However, Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Snowdonia National Park has some 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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Zurich a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Zurich?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Snowdonia National Park. 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 Snowdonia National Park. 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 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 Zurich.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Zurich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Zurich 2-5

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Snowdonia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Zurich. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. 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 Zurich?

Snowdonia National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Zurich?

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

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Most people head to the area for the shopping. 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 Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the natural destination of Snowdonia National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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, Zurich 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 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 Snowdonia National Park and Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Zurich £137
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Zurich £274
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park


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: Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Zurich £29

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

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:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich - Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Private Transfer From Hotel To Zurich Airport or Vice Versa: $56
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer Zurich Airport To/From Zurich: $65
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Vals Thermal Resorts - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Noumea Cruise Port to Noumea hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $71
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Badenweiler Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich City Center: $76
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $78
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Business Car: $82
  • Private Transfer From Hotel in Zurich To Zurich Airport: $87
  • Private Transfer From Zurich Airport To Hotel in Zurich: $87
  • Private Zurich Transfer: $90

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

Prices for flights to both Zurich 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
    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.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Zurich £29

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 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
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Zurich £24

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 Snowdonia National Park and Zurich, we can see that Zurich 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 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 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 Zurich Expensive?.



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

Both Zurich and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Zurich in the summer. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Zurich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Snowdonia National Park. Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Zurich. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Zurich 21°C (70°F)

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

Both Zurich and Snowdonia National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zurich because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Zurich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Zurich averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Zurich. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Zurich 13°C (56°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Zurich. The winter months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the skiing and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. In January, Snowdonia National Park is generally much warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 5°C (42°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Zurich. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Zurich 3°C (37°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Zurich. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty.

Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Zurich in the spring. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Zurich 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Zurich and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Zurich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)