A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zermatt vs. Baden-Baden for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zermatt or Baden-Baden?

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 Baden-Baden 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a nature-oriented, peaceful, and historic spa town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zermatt and Baden-Baden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Baden-Baden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Baden-Baden are popular destinations, Zermatt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Baden-Baden attracts visitors for its museums and food. Zermatt is more touristy than Baden-Baden and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also well known for The Matterhorn. Baden-Baden is famous for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Baden-Baden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Baden-Baden is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Zermatt is among the best in the world. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zermatt or Baden-Baden?

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

Baden-Baden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

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 Baden-Baden? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baden-Baden is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Baden-Baden has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

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.

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its evening party scene.

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 Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Baden-Baden is not a resort destination.

Zermatt is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Baden-Baden is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Zermatt draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Baden-Baden?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its shopping areas.

Zermatt is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Baden-Baden has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Baden-Baden.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Baden-Baden is very family-friendly. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden Better for Couples?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for couples.

Zermatt has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Baden-Baden makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zermatt is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.

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

Zermatt is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.

Is Zermatt or Baden-Baden a more walkable city?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable town. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Baden-Baden or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Baden-Baden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Baden-Baden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Baden-Baden. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-3 days is enough time in Baden-Baden.

Families should spend more time in Zermatt than Baden-Baden. 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 Baden-Baden. 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 Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden?

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.

In Baden-Baden, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This spa 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 Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming 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.

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

Five days in Zermatt or Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the stunning 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.

Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baden-Baden. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Baden-Baden. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Germany, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Baden-Baden?

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

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 Baden-Baden in the Summer?

Both Baden-Baden and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zermatt is a little warmer than Baden-Baden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zermatt in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Baden-Baden averages at about 20°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Baden-Baden. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Baden-Baden during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 231 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Baden-Baden. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Baden-Baden in the Autumn?

Both Baden-Baden and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Baden-Baden in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Baden-Baden. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 15°C (58°F), and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Baden-Baden. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 91 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Baden-Baden. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Baden-Baden in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Baden-Baden. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Baden-Baden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baden-Baden can be very cold during winter. Zermatt can get quite cold in the winter. Zermatt is much warmer than Baden-Baden in the winter. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Baden-Baden fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Baden-Baden during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Baden-Baden receives 35 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Baden-Baden. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Baden-Baden in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Baden-Baden. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zermatt is a little warmer than Baden-Baden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zermatt in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Baden-Baden averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Baden-Baden. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baden-Baden receives 154 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Baden-Baden. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Baden-Baden receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Baden-Baden and Zermatt