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

Should you visit Zermatt or Arles?

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 Arles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Arles?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Arles, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Arles is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Arles and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for winter skiing. However, Arles is not a skiing destination.

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.

Arles is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

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 Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zermatt and Arles offer very good 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.

Arles has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Zermatt is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is well known for its resorts. However, Arles 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.

Arles is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is very popular for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Arles has a world-famous historical area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. 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.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Arles?

Zermatt is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zermatt. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for Families?

Zermatt is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is known to be 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.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Zermatt has plenty to offer. 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.

Arles is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Zermatt or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is well known for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zermatt is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

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

Both Zermatt and Arles offer notable 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.

Arles has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Zermatt or Arles a more walkable city?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Arles. 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 Arles. 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 Arles 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 Arles?

In Zermatt, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this breathtaking destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Zermatt or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. 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 museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Arles?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. In Zermatt, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Arles is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Arles?

You'll find nightlife and food around the charming destination of Zermatt. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Arles, 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 Arles?

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 Arles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Arles. The summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

In July, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Arles. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zermatt usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Arles. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Arles. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Zermatt is around the same temperature as Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Arles. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Arles. Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Arles. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zermatt. In the winter, Zermatt is cooler than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Zermatt usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Arles. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Zermatt during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Arles for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Arles. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Arles. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Arles. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arles and Zermatt