A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Windsor vs. Zurich for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Windsor or Zurich?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Zurich? 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

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 food, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Windsor or Zurich?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zurich than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zurich is better known for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Windsor is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Also, Zurich is famous for The Grossmünster.

How is Windsor different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Windsor and Zurich.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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.

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

Zurich is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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 Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for its live music scene. However, Windsor is not a live music destination.

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.

Windsor is not a live music destination.

Is Windsor or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Zurich is revered around the world. 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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Zurich?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Zurich Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Zurich Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Zurich make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Zurich is a great town if you're traveling as 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 Windsor or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is a world-class destination for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Zurich is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Zurich a more walkable city?

Windsor and Zurich both are superb when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Zurich is a very walkable destination. 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 Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Zurich?

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

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Windsor. 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 Windsor. 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 Windsor 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.

One day in Windsor or Zurich?

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Windsor or Zurich?

Windsor 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.

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. 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 is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Zurich?

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, 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 Windsor and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Windsor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Windsor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Windsor 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 Windsor.

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

Which is Bigger, Windsor or Zurich?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Zurich in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Zurich. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Zurich because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Windsor is cooler than Zurich in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Zurich during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Zurich. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Windsor or Zurich in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Zurich. The autumn months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Zurich. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Zurich. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Windsor or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. It's quite cold in Windsor in the winter. In January, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Zurich. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Windsor or Zurich in the Spring?

Both Zurich and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the spring for the natural beauty.

Windsor is cooler than Zurich in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zurich. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Windsor