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

Should you visit Zermatt or Auxerre?

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

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. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a authentic, under-rated, and undiscovered town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for food and museums.

Zermatt and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Matterhorn
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Zermatt or Auxerre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Auxerre, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is more popular for its museums. Zermatt is more touristy than Auxerre and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Auxerre is well known for its food, wine, and art history.

The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Auxerre Better for Skiing?

Zermatt
Auxerre

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for skiing. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a skiing destination.


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

Zermatt
Auxerre

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

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.

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 Auxerre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zermatt
Auxerre

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

Zermatt has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Zermatt or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt
Auxerre

Zermatt is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Zermatt for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.


Is Zermatt or Auxerre Better for Resorts?

Zermatt
Auxerre

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Auxerre Better for Hiking?

Zermatt
Auxerre

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Auxerre?

Zermatt
Auxerre

Zermatt is great for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Zermatt or Auxerre Better for Families?

Zermatt
Auxerre

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Zermatt. 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.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Zermatt or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Zermatt
Auxerre

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Zermatt or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt
Auxerre

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.


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

Zermatt
Auxerre

Both Zermatt and Auxerre 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.

Auxerre has some public transit options. There are buses around town.

Is Zermatt or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Zermatt
Auxerre

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

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.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Auxerre 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 Auxerre.

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


  • How many days in Zermatt or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zermatt 2-5 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Zermatt or Auxerre?

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 Auxerre, you'll find food and 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 Auxerre?

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 Auxerre, you'll find museums and food. 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 Auxerre has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

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 Auxerre. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Auxerre. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Zermatt?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zermatt is $223, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is $121. 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 Zermatt and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zermatt $126
    Auxerre $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zermatt $252
    Auxerre $110
Compare Hotels in Zermatt and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Zermatt or Auxerre? 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 Zermatt


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Zermatt Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zermatt $53
    Auxerre $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zermatt

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:

  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $1,087
  • 3-Hour Private Transfer from Zermatt and Saa to Geneva Airport: $235
  • Zermatt to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $141
  • Cervinia, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $127
  • Breuil-Cervinia to Milan Malpensa Airport MXP-Departure Transfer: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Zermatt or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Zermatt 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
    Zermatt $57
    Auxerre $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zermatt

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zermatt.

  • Evening Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zermatt $56
    Auxerre $19

Tours and Activities in Zermatt

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zermatt are as follows:

  • Basel Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $885
  • Basel: Gornergrat Railway & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tour: $1,067
  • Bern Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $856
  • Bern Private Tour: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise: $801
  • Bern: Gornergrat Railway & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Tour: $984
  • From Basel: Zermatt and Mt. Gornergrat Small Group Tour: $530
  • From Bern: Zermatt Guided Tour with Matterhorn Railway Pass: $530
  • From Zurich: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise Private Tour: $885
  • Interlaken Private Tour to Gornergrat & Matterhorn Paradise: $1,026
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt & Gornergrat Scenic Railway: $843
  • Interlaken Private Tour: Zermatt Village & Glacier Paradise: $801
  • Majestic Hiking Private Tour in Zermatt with pick up: $1,692

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zermatt $28
    Auxerre $6.58

Sample the Local Flavors in Zermatt

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:

  • Wine Tasting in Valais: $84

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


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

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


Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Auxerre?

Auxerre has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

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 Zermatt or Auxerre in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Auxerre. The summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auxerre. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Auxerre. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zermatt 23°C (73°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Auxerre in the Autumn?

Both Auxerre and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Auxerre for the small town atmosphere.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Auxerre in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Auxerre during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zermatt 15°C (58°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Auxerre in the Winter?

Both Auxerre and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Auxerre in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Auxerre can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zermatt. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Auxerre. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Auxerre averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Auxerre. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Auxerre. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zermatt 5°C (41°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Zermatt or Auxerre in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Auxerre. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Auxerre for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zermatt 13°C (55°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Zermatt

Zermatt Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)