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

Should you visit Southampton or Zermatt?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Zermatt? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Southampton

Southampton is a up-and-coming, waterfront, and dynamic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Southampton and Zermatt: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Southampton or Zermatt?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Southampton and Zermatt are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Southampton attracts visitors for its museums. Zermatt is more touristy than Southampton and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Southampton is famous for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

The Matterhorn

How is Southampton different from Zermatt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Southampton or Zermatt Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for skiing. However, Southampton is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Zermatt should be on your list. 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.

Southampton is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Southampton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.

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

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

Zermatt is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Zermatt has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Southampton area. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.

Is Southampton or Zermatt Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a great town for nightlife and partying. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Zermatt has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Southampton. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

Is Southampton or Zermatt Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Southampton is not a resort destination.

Zermatt is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Southampton is not a resort destination.

Is Southampton or Zermatt Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Southampton is not a hiking destination.

People visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Southampton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or Zermatt?

Zermatt is a great town for its shopping opportunities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping areas.

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

Many visitors go to Southampton to go shopping. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.

Is Southampton or Zermatt Better for Families?

Zermatt is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zermatt is very family-friendly. 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.

Southampton is a family-friendly place to visit. This cruise port city offers a handful of fascinating activities for kids including learning about the Mayflower and the Titanic. There are also many parks and gardens as well as the Mayflower Theater, which regularly has kid-family productions.

Is Southampton or Zermatt Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for couples.

Zermatt makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Southampton is a very popular place to visit for couples. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.

Is Southampton or Zermatt Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many 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.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Zermatt is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known for its public transit.

While Zermatt offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Public transit is generally limited in Southampton. There are buses around town that make some areas accessible even without a car.

Is Southampton or Zermatt a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its ease of walking around.

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

Southampton is a somewhat walkable port city. It's possible to walk in parts of Southampton but in general it's easier to take a taxi.

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

Should I spend more time in Zermatt or Southampton?

How long in Southampton or Zermatt?

In either Southampton or Zermatt, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than Southampton because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Southampton, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zermatt.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Southampton. 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 Southampton. 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 Southampton 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.

One day in Southampton or Zermatt?

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

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the stunning town of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or Zermatt?

In Southampton, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Southampton has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning destination of Zermatt. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Southampton or Zermatt?

Southampton is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic town of Zermatt. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Southampton or Zermatt?

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

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, 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 Southampton and Zermatt, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Southampton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Southampton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Southampton 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 Southampton.

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

Which is Bigger, Southampton or Zermatt?

Southampton has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Southampton and Zermatt, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Southampton or Zermatt?

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 Southampton or Zermatt in the Summer?

Both Zermatt and Southampton during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Southampton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Southampton is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 18°C (64°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Southampton often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Southampton gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 250 hours of full sun.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Southampton usually gets less rain in July than Zermatt. Southampton gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Southampton or Zermatt in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Zermatt. Many travelers come to Southampton for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zermatt in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Southampton usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during autumn. Southampton gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Southampton usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Southampton gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Southampton or Zermatt in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Zermatt. Many visitors come to Southampton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zermatt can be very cold during winter. Southampton can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Southampton is cooler than Zermatt. Typically, the winter temperatures in Southampton in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Zermatt averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Southampton often gets less sunshine than Zermatt. Southampton gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zermatt receives 119 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in January than Zermatt. Southampton gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Southampton or Zermatt in the Spring?

Both Zermatt and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Southampton for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Southampton is generally cooler than Zermatt. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 9°C (48°F), and Zermatt fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Southampton usually receives less sunshine than Zermatt during spring. Southampton gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Zermatt receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. In April, Southampton usually receives less rain than Zermatt. Southampton gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zermatt receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zermatt and Southampton