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

Should you visit Zermatt or Alesund?

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 Zermatt and Alesund can help you decide which place is right for you.

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. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Alesund

Alesund is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Alesund: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Alesund?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Alesund are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Alesund is known for its museums and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Alesund and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Alesund is popular for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Alesund 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.

Alesund is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Alesund is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.

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 Zermatt or Alesund? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Alesund offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zermatt makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Alesund has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Alesund 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.

Alesund is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Alesund 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.

Alesund is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Alesund?

Zermatt is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Families?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Alesund is a family-friendly town. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Zermatt or Alesund Better for Students?

Alesund is very good for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Alesund is a good city to visit for students. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Both Zermatt and Alesund offer good public transit options.

Zermatt has a few public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.

Is Zermatt or Alesund a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Alesund. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Alesund. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 2-3 days is enough time in Alesund.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Alesund. 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 Alesund. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zermatt that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt than Alesund 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 Zermatt or Alesund?

In Zermatt, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Alesund, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Zermatt or Alesund?

In Zermatt, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer.

In Alesund, 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 Alesund has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Alesund?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Alesund 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.

A week in Zermatt or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alesund. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alesund. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zermatt and Alesund, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Alesund much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alesund would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alesund 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 Alesund.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Alesund?

Alesund has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Alesund, 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 Zermatt or Alesund?

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 Zermatt or Alesund in the Summer?

Both Alesund and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Alesund because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Zermatt is much warmer than Alesund in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Alesund. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Alesund in the Autumn?

Both Alesund and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Alesund this time of year.

In the autumn, Zermatt is much warmer than Alesund. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Alesund averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Alesund gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets less rain in October than Alesund. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Alesund in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Alesund. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alesund for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alesund. It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. In January, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Alesund receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Zermatt usually receives less rain than Alesund. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Alesund in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Alesund. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Alesund in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Alesund can get quite cold in the spring. Zermatt is much warmer than Alesund in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Alesund. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Alesund and Zermatt